Delta Aquariid meteor shower: when to observe in 2026

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The peak activity of the Delta Aquariid meteor shower in 2026 falls on the night of July 30-31. Due to the nearly full Moon, observations will be limited by bright moonlight.

The peak activity of the Delta Aquariids meteor shower this year falls on July 28, and the next peak falls on the night of July 30-31, 2026, reports UNN. 

What is the meteor shower of the Delta Aquariids stream

Southern Delta Aquariids is a meteor shower observed annually from mid-July to mid-August. The peak of activity falls on July 28 or 29. This stream was formed as a result of the disintegration of an object from which the modern comets Marsden and Kracht were formed. 

When can the Delta Aquariids be seen in 2026

The Delta Aquariids are best observed from the southern tropics. North of the equator, the radiant is located lower on the southern horizon, so the intensity of meteors is lower than in more southern latitudes. 

These meteors show good intensity for a week centered on the night of peak activity. They are usually faint meteors that have neither long trails nor fireballs. In 2026, the full moon will occur only two days before the peak, so activity will be significantly limited by bright moonlight.

The next peak of the Southern Delta Aquariids falls on the night of July 30-31, 2026. That night, the Moon will be 98% full.

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How best to observe a meteor shower

The best time for observations is the pre-dawn hours, when the sky is darkest. You should find a place away from city lights to avoid light pollution. It is also necessary to let your eyes adjust to the darkness. 

Direct your gaze towards the southern part of the sky, where the constellations Aquarius and Capricorn will be located.

Special equipment, such as telescopes or binoculars, is not needed, as meteors are best seen with the naked eye.

To find the necessary constellations, you can also use mobile apps, such as Sky Guide or Star Walk – there you can easily find information about various space objects thanks to augmented reality. 

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