Perseid meteor shower set to light up the sky above Northern Ireland tonight
Fingers crossed for clear skies 💫
Stargazers across Northern Ireland can hopefully enjoy the "best meteor shower of the year" tonight, so long as the skies remain clear.
The Perseid meteor shower begins mid-July, but the prime time to view them is mid-August, when there could be as many as 100 meteors in an hour. They eventually disappear by the end of the month.
Experts predict Monday 12th August, between midnight and the early hours, will be the optimum time to see them.
Dubbed the best of the year, with very fast and bright meteors, Perseids frequently leave long trails of light and colour behind them as they streak through Earth's atmosphere.
According to Nasa, "Perseids are also known for their fireballs. Fireballs are larger explosions of light and color that can persist longer than an average meteor streak. This is due to the fact that fireballs originate from larger particles of cometary material."
Where do meteors come from?
Every year Earth passes through dusty debris trails, which allows bits to collide with our atmosphere and disintegrate to create fiery and colourful streaks in the sky.
The best way to catch a glimpse is to escape the city and head to the country, where there is a clear view of the horizon. The darker it is, the easier they will be to see.
If this has you dreaming of gazing up at the stars, why don't you spend the last few moments of summer camping.
Check out NI's coolest camp sites for prime stargazing action:
Gorse Hill Farm, Bryansford
Just an hour outside Belfast, you can't beat the picturesque landscape from the cosy pods at Gorse Hill Farm. Enjoy walks in the mountains and views of the Shimna River Valley.
Highview Holiday Park, Portrush
Nestled in the heart of the Causeway Coast and 15 mins, this family-friendly park offers glamping cabins, a play park and tuck shop.
Castle Ward, Strangford
With pitches for tents, caravans, motorhomes and campervans, there's something for everyone at Castle Ward. Plus, if you don't have your own tent, the campsite also has a handful of wooden camping pods for hire.
Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh
Located near the stunning Strangford Lough and surrounded by the beauty of a country park, you'll never want to leave this hidden gem!
Let’s Go Hydro, Carryduff
Let's go Hydro offers a range of glamping options perfect for individuals, families and large groups. Your options are endless, from safari tents to cabins on the water!
Meelmore Lodge, Bryansford
Meelmore Lodge is an ideal place to stay for anyone visiting or trekking through the Mourne Mountains. They have a spacious campsite with stunning views and a bistro which is open daily to the public.
Kilbroney Caravan Park, Co.Down
Overlooking Carlingford Lough these 97 acres of beautiful parkland nestles within the shadow of Slieve Martin and the Mountains of Mourne.
Maddybenny Farm Campsite
Maddybenny Farm Campsite is a small and friendly family and dog friendly campsite. This spot is ideal for little one, with beaches, golf courses, scenic walks and numerous outdoor activities nearby.
Crom Campsite, Fermanagh
This large campsite is spread over two areas, Culliagh's and Bell Hill. This spacious family friendly plot offers tent pitches as well as collection of luxurious glamping pods. With lots of facilities on site including a shower and toilet block, outdoor tap for washing dishes and even a communal campfire.
Carrowmena, Limavady
Enjoy views of Binevenagh or trips to Benone Beach and Magilligan Point from Carrowmena's set of attractive bell tents. The site features tempting water sports and outdoor activities with trained instructors.
Sycamore Pods, Larne
Just a mile from Ballgally beach, Sycamore Pods offers glamping at its best. With two bespoke pods, guests can enjoy a weekend spent in a private hot tub, cosy up by the campfire and sleeping in ultimate luxury.
Murlough Cottage Caravan Park, Newcastle
The iconic views of the sea and towering Mourne Mountains are worth the trip to Murlough alone. With world-class golf, fishing, sailing and horse riding available you'll never get bored.
Riverside Farm, Enniskillen
A family run caravan park situated in the centre of Fermanagh Lakelands, ideal for visiting Marble Arch Caves, Florence Court House or Castle Coole. The site has a small marina with a slipway suitable for kayakers or stand-up paddle boarding.
Carrickreagh Bay, Lower Lough Erne
Carrickreagh Bay Luxury Glamping Pods look out over the tranquil waters of Lough Erne, offering a lovely base for families and couples.
Finn Lough Bubble Domes, Fermanagh
Sleep under the stars, turn off your mobile and go off the grid for a little adventure or a lot of relaxation. A once in a lifetime experience, sleeping in a luxurious four poster bed under a canopy of leaves in the heart of the stunning Fermanagh Lakelands.
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