Skywatchers in the UAE have the opportunity to witness the September Epsilon Perseids meteor shower, which will reach its peak on Tuesday morning. The meteor shower is currently active and is expected to produce up to 8 meteors per hour at its peak on September 10. Various meteor showers observed around the world are caused by small celestial bodies composed of ice and dust that orbit the Sun on different timelines. These meteor showers provide a fascinating spectacle for sky gazers and astronomers alike.
According to Mohammad Shawkat Odeh, the Director of the International Astronomy Centre in Abu Dhabi, the September Epsilon Perseids are not as well-known as the more active Perseids meteor shower but can still be observed from the UAE. Odeh explains that when a comet approaches the sun, dust particles are ejected from the comet, known as meteoroids, which then enter Earth’s atmosphere and create meteors. While the September Epsilon Perseids are less active compared to the August Perseids, they are still an interesting astronomical event to observe.
Experts in the UAE have identified the September Epsilon Perseids as a relatively minor meteor shower with a radiant point near the constellation Perseus, specifically near the star Epsilon Persei. The shower peaks around September 9-10, producing an average of 5 meteors per hour under optimal conditions. These meteors travel at high speeds typical for Perseid-type meteor showers. Clear, dark skies away from city lights are essential for optimal viewing of the meteor shower, and the early morning hours offer the best conditions for observation.
The September Epsilon Perseids meteor shower is believed to be associated with debris from an unknown comet, and while it may not be as intense as the August Perseids, it still provides a captivating display for skywatchers. The radiant point of the September Epsilon Perseids is closer to Epsilon Persei compared to the Perseids, which peak earlier in August and are more intense in terms of meteors per hour. Observing meteor showers such as the September Epsilon Perseids can be a rewarding experience for those interested in astronomy, providing a glimpse into the wonders of the universe. Stay updated with the latest news by following KT on WhatsApp Channels to get information on upcoming astronomy events and celestial phenomena in the UAE.
