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Six Planets to Align at Dawn with Perseid Meteor Shower Peak

Clear, dark skies about an hour before sunrise will reward skywatchers with six planets stretching across the ecliptic as the Perseid shower reaches its height.

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Overview

  • Beginning August 10, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune will appear in a visual lineup along the ecliptic until mid-August.
  • The closest apparent conjunction between Venus and Jupiter is expected on August 12, marking the optimal night for planet spotting.
  • The Perseid meteor shower will peak on the nights of August 12–13, offering up to 100 meteors per hour under ideal dark-sky conditions.
  • Observers can see Mercury, Venus, Jupiter and Saturn with the naked eye, while Uranus and Neptune will require binoculars or a small telescope.
  • Experts recommend finding a location with minimal light pollution and checking weather forecasts to ensure clear dawn skies for the best viewing experience.