Stargazers have a reason to keep an eye on the night sky this week. The Perseids meteor shower will hit its peak the night of August 12 into the morning of August 13.
Watchers can see bright meteors that leave long “wakes” of light and color behind as they streak through Earth’s atmosphere, according to NASA. Perseids are also known for their fireballs, which are large explosions of light and color that often persist longer than an average meteor streak.
The Perseids appear in the Northern Hemisphere and are best viewed under dark skies, during the predawn hours, NASA says. Here are some of the best dark sky places to get a great view of the shower in and around Northern Virginia.
Observatory Park at Turner Farm
This Great Falls park offers prime stargazing opportunities and is the darkest spot within a 30-mile radius of Washington, DC. It was previously used as a former U.S. Army Map Service and Defense Mapping Agency site, and contributed to the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS). The park was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2024. Visitors can purchase Night Viewing Permits which provides after‑dark access to the parking lot area online. 925 Springvale Rd., Great Falls
Rappahannock County Park
Just a few miles from the Appalachian Trail, this county park reaches 7.3 acres with quiet areas for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. Visitors can attend the park’s Dark Sky events and learn about the importance of dark skies. It was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2019. 7 Park Ln., Washington
Sky Meadows State Park
Found on the eastern side of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sky Meadows hosts outdoor activities including hiking, bird-watching, and camping. Guests can view the meteor shower at Turner Pond, the park’s designated self-guided stargazing area, until 2 a.m. 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane
Staunton River State Park
Designated in 2015, Staunton River State Park was the first Virginia State Park to receive a Dark Sky designation. It hosts various stargazing events and offers telescopes to rent. Visitors are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets to the Observatory Field to catch the meteor shower. 1170 Staunton Trail, Scottsburg
Featured image, lukjonis/stock/adobe.com
