San Antonio residents and visitors are preparing for a celestial treat this weekend as the Perseid meteor shower is set to light up the night sky. According to FOX San Antonio, the shower will peak on the night of August 11 through the early hours of August 12, offering up to 100 meteors per hour in optimal dark sky conditions.

With its origins tracing back to Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, the particles—ranging from the size of sand grains to small candies—enter Earth's atmosphere at impressive speeds, averaging 36 miles per second. While the Perseids are renowned for their bright fireballs, these meteor events rarely result in remnants reaching the ground. As News 4 San Antonio notes, the best viewing times are slated for Sunday and Monday nights, between 11 pm and dawn.

Urban light pollution in San Antonio may impede optimal viewing, reducing the visible meteor count to around 40 per hour. However, those venturing to darker suburban or rural areas could be rewarded with sightings of up to 100 meteors per hour. A waxing Moon, about 53% illuminated, is expected to set as the shower reaches its climax, diminishing its potential impact on visibility.

For those interested in attending a community event, local astronomy clubs are hosting Perseid viewing parties, offering a chance to witness the celestial show with fellow enthusiasts. Experts recommend escaping the city's bright lights and checking specialized weather forecasts to ensure clear skies.

For the full schedule of events and additional viewing tips, individuals should seek information from local resources and plan accordingly to witness this annual astronomical highlight.