Two meteor showers are set to peak on the same night this week, giving skywatchers a notable late-July observing window. The Delta Aquariids are expected to peak on July 30-31, helping kick off the annual stretch often referred to as meteor season.
The biggest obstacle, however, will be the moon. With a near-full moon lighting up the sky, many of the fainter meteors may be hard to spot, so viewers should expect a more washed-out display than they would under darker conditions.
Even with that limitation, there are still ways to improve the experience. The best views will likely come from a dark location away from city lights, with plenty of time for your eyes to adjust. Under bright moonlight, the most visible meteors are usually the brighter streaks, so patience may be needed.
While the moon may reduce the overall number of meteors seen, the July 30-31 peak still marks an important moment for summer skywatching. For anyone hoping to catch the start of meteor season, this overlapping peak could still offer worthwhile glimpses of activity.
