If there’s only one meteor shower you pay attention to this year, make it this one. It’s time for the start of the annual Perseid Meteor Shower (taking place July 17 – August 24) and this year promises to be even better than last! Here’s why you’ll want to make plans to see it this summer, more than in previous years.

Typically, any meteor shower is best viewed when you can escape any source of light pollution that would interfere with your best view of the night sky.

Flickr/ Marina Kyriacou

The Perseid Meteor Shower is always filled with multiple ‘shooting stars,’ often with many zipping across the sky all at once. Typically, they’re easily seen with the naked eye.

Flickr/Tom Lee

However, this year, during the peak days of this extraordinary light show (August 12-13), the tiny sliver of a crescent moon is expected to set early, leaving the sky entirely dark in the wee hours before dawn. In near total darkness, it will be even easier to spot them.

Flickr/ Luis Argerich

Another reason this meteor shower is the one to see: you won’t need an app to find it. They will be all over the sky, sometimes 60-100 PER MINUTE. (If you do a little research, you may be able to pick up some extra tips on capturing images of them on your cell phone.)

Flickr/Johan Larsson

The best spots for viewing are found any place you can escape light pollution. Expect a few star parties to pop up all over the state to celebrate this year’s annual show. If this sounds like something you’d attend, a star party and meteor viewing event is planned outside of Flagstaff on the evening of August 11 at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. The typical entree fee for vehicles into the monument is $20. Learn more at this link on the website of the National Park Service, and at this link on VisitArizona.com.

Flickr/Amy the Nurse

Is this the year you’ll stay up past your bedtime to see this extraordinary meteor shower? We will be!

Flickr/ Marina Kyriacou

Flickr/Tom Lee

Flickr/ Luis Argerich

Flickr/Johan Larsson

Flickr/Amy the Nurse

For more fun in Arizona, check out these 8 Unique Day Trips In Arizona That Are An Absolute Must Do.

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