What Are the Perseids?

The Perseids are a meteor shower caused by debris from the Swift-Tuttle comet. When the Earth passes through the cloud of particles left by the comet, these particles enter our atmosphere at high speed, creating bright flashes visible as shooting stars. The name “Perseids” comes from the constellation Perseus, from which the meteors appear to radiate.

Why Is La Palma the Perfect Place to Observe Them?

• Dark and Clear Skies: La Palma is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and holds the “Starlight Destination” certification awarded by the Starlight Foundation, recognizing the world’s best locations for stargazing. The island enforces strict regulations against light pollution, ensuring exceptionally dark skies.
• Geographic Location: Situated in the Atlantic, far from continental landmasses and their sources of pollution, La Palma offers unparalleled visibility of the night sky. Elevated locations like the Roque de los Muchachos allow observers to rise above the cloud layer, ensuring clear nights.
• Astronomical Infrastructure: La Palma is home to one of the world’s most significant observatories at the Roque de los Muchachos, equipped with cutting-edge telescopes. While viewing the Perseids does not require specialized equipment, the presence of this observatory highlights the exceptional quality of the island’s skies.

The Perseids peak between August 11 and 13, with up to 100 meteors visible per hour. The best time to observe them is after midnight until dawn.

Selecting an ideal location is crucial for optimal viewing. The Roque de los Muchachos, at an altitude of 2,400 meters, offers a clear, light-pollution-free vantage point. Other options include beaches or rural areas far from urban lights.

Special Perseids Event by AstroLaPalma

AstroLaPalma is hosting a special event to enjoy the Perseids on August 11 and 12. Spaces are limited, so booking early is essential.

The activity begins at sunset and includes a brief stargazing session using binoculars, as well as constellation interpretation led by our Starlight-certified guides.

For more information about the event or to reserve your spot, visit our website at lapalmastars.com/astro-eventos.

La entrada The Perseids in La Palma: A Unique Spectacle se publicó primero en AstroLaPalma.

The island of La Palma, known as ‘La Isla Bonita’, is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Our guided tours company offers you a unique experience to enjoy the sky, especially during the Perseids. 2024 is the year!

What are the Perseids?

A Natural Spectacle. The Perseids are one of the most impressive meteor showers of the year. They occur every August when the Earth passes through the remnants of the Swift-Tuttle comet. This phenomenon offers a spectacular sight of dozens of meteors illuminating the night sky. Many of them are barely a trace, but even if you only see 4 or 5 shooting stars in one night it is worth it.

La Palma: the ideal place to see them

La Palma’s privileged location, combined with its low light pollution, makes it the perfect setting for observing the Perseids. The World Biosphere Reserve and the 1988 Sky Law protect these skies, guaranteeing an unparalleled viewing experience.

Guided stargazing tours

We offer guided stargazing tours adapted to all levels of interest and knowledge. But we dedicate more time to the Perseids. We can see the sky, and learn to identify the constellations, while we wait for the shooting stars.

Unique itineraries during the Perseids 2024

During the Perseids 2024 season, our routes focus on maximising the visibility of this astronomical event. Everyone wants to see them, but if we are in crowded places, the lights of vehicles and people will not let us see them. So this time we will walk away from the usual places.

The events will take place on the nights of the 11th and 12th of August.

Why choose us?

Professional and Passionate Guides

Our team is composed of guides with a vast experience in astronomy and a deep love for the island of La Palma. They will provide you with fascinating information about the universe and the history of stargazing on the island.

Book your star adventure today

Don’t miss the opportunity to live a unique experience of star tourism in La Palma. Whether to observe the impressive Perseids or to enjoy a starry night at any time of the year, our guided tours are the best way to connect with the cosmos.

Join us!

Book your guided tour now on our website. Reservation link for this event: https://lapalmastars.com/astro-eventos/

Summary of the special event Perseids 2024. August 11th and 12th

If you want to enjoy the Perseids this summer, this is your chance. We will enjoy the sunset and later the star shower. We will make a small observation with binoculars and interpretation of the constellations with our Starlight guides.

Meeting point: our office in Los Cancajos.

Rental car or own car required. No transport is included

Location of the activity: depending on weather conditions.

Duration: 4 hours + travel time by car to the car park.

Warm clothing is required.

We recommend bringing binoculars if you have them, a torch, food and water.

We will walk a maximum of 2 km at sunset and 2 km at night for the return. Not suitable for people with reduced mobility or small children.

Here you will find the booking calendar. Departure time 18:30.

Bookings for this event here: https://lapalmastars.com/astro-eventos/

General info about perseids can easily be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perseids

La entrada Perseids 2024 se publicó primero en AstroLaPalma.