This August we are heading up to Κυπερούντα to check out the Περσείδες
When: 12.08.2026 00:00
Organizer: Admin
The shooting stars are returning and Kyperounta is the place you must be
On August 12 and 13 the Perseids phenomenon peaks this year, with Cyprus having favorable observing conditions, as the sky will be moonless and the «shooting stars» are expected to be more distinct.
According to astrophysicist Chrysanthos Faka, the meteor shower has been ongoing since July 17 and will last until August 24. The best viewing days will be Wednesday and Thursday, August 12 and 13, when the highest density of meteors is expected.
The Perseids appear to originate visually from the constellation Perseus, which is why they got their name. The radiant point is in the northeastern sky, with observers being advised to look in that direction, preferably after 11 p.m., when the point rises higher in the sky.
Especially favorable for observation is the fact that on August 12, during the event, the sky will be moonless. This is expected to make the «shooting stars» more impressive, as the lack of strong lunar light will aid visibility.
This year, the August Full Moon will be on August 28 and will be called the moon of the walleye. The name comes from the eponymous fish, which Indigenous peoples fished in the lakes of North America during the August moon.
On the same day as the Perseids peak, August 12, a total solar eclipse will also occur. The phenomenon, however, will not be visible from Cyprus, but from regions of Western Europe.
The Perseids are created when Earth passes through the orbit of comet Swift‑Tuttle, which is filled with dust remnants and small particles left behind by the comet. When these particles enter Earth’s atmosphere, they reach tremendous speeds, ignite and vaporize, creating the bright streaks in the sky that people call «shooting stars».
Alongside the meteor shower, sky enthusiasts will also be able this year to observe the constellation Scorpio with its characteristic red Antares, the planet Venus, as well as other constellations.
On the occasion of the event, the Astronomical Society of Cyprus, the Cyprus Space Exploration Organization and the Faka Tutoring Observatory, in cooperation with the Kyperounta Community Council, are organizing an astronomy evening in the forecourt of the Holy Church of Saint Arsenios in Kyperounta.
The event will take place on Wednesday, August 12 2026, from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m., with free admission for the public. Those who have telescopes can bring them, and attendees are advised to bring winter clothing due to the low temperature expected in the area.
For better observation, sky friends are encouraged to choose spots away from lights and light pollution, enjoying the phenomenon safely.
Source: https://www.checkincyprus.com/article/88500/auton-ton-augousto-anebainoume-kuperounta-gia-na-khazepsoume-tis-perseides/
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