Lorraine Williamson
Spain’s skies are about to light up with one of the most anticipated celestial events of the year. The Perseids meteor shower will reach its peak from the night of August 12 to 13, 2025.
This year’s event is expected to be one of the most intense of the past decade, with up to 100 meteors per hour.
What are the Perseids?
The Perseids are an annual meteor shower that occurs when Earth passes through the dust trail left by comet Swift-Tuttle. As the comet’s particles burn up in the Earth’s atmosphere, they create the beautiful “shooting stars” that light up the night sky. The Perseids are named after the constellation Perseus, from which the meteors appear to originate.
When and where to watch
The best time to observe the Perseids is from midnight to sunrise, with the peak occurring between 2.00 am and 5.00 am. During these hours, the radiant point of the shower will be high in the sky. Despite the moon being 84% illuminated, the brighter meteors, or “fireballs,” will still be clearly visible. Meteorologist Cristina Herrera assures that these fireballs will remain visible even in the presence of moonlight.
In Spain, there are several prime locations for viewing the meteor shower. Areas with little to no light pollution will offer the best experience. Some of the best spots include Teide National Park in Tenerife, Sierra de Gredos, Cabo de Gata in Almería, and Parc Astronòmic del Montsec in Lleida. Additionally, the Cíes Islands in Galicia offer some of the darkest skies in the country.
For a truly unique experience, consider visiting Sierra Nevada. On August 11 and 12, the Borreguiles cable car will take visitors up to an altitude of 2,700 metres, offering a spectacular vantage point for stargazing.
Tips for enjoying the meteor shower
To ensure you get the best view of the Perseids, it’s important to prepare well. Arrive early to let your eyes adjust to the dark. While telescopes and binoculars might seem tempting, they aren’t necessary—naked-eye viewing is usually the best way to see the most meteors. You may want to bring a comfortable chair or blanket to enjoy the show. Also, be sure to check the weather forecast ahead of time, as cloudy skies could obscure your view.
Another chance to watch: The Orionids in October
If you miss the Perseids, you’ll have another chance to enjoy a meteor shower later in the year. The Orionid meteor shower, which peaks on October 21, 2025, is less prolific than the Perseids but still offers a beautiful display. As Cristina Herrera beautifully puts it, “The magic of the night sky knows no calendars, only patience and darkness.”
Sources: El Independiente de Granada, Infobae