Unfortunately, as luck would have it, 2025 will see the moon turn full on Aug. 9 and will be at a rather bright waning gibbous phase a few nights later, seriously hampering observation of the peak of the Perseids, predicted to occur for the overnight hours of Monday Aug. 11, into the predawn hours of Tuesday morning, Aug. 12.

The best time to watch a meteor shower is in the early predawn hours when the moon is low in the sky. Competing sources of light — such as a bright moon or artificial glow — are the main obstacles to a clear view of meteors. Cloudless nights when the moon wanes smallest are optimal viewing opportunities.

There’s something fishy going on in the sky this week—and it will be a feast for the eyes. There’s something fishy going on in the sky this week, but don’t worry—it doesn’t smell like when your coworker heats up their leftover tilapia in the communal microwave.