30/07/2024
Fancy a bit of star gazing, well the Diario de Avisos have announced that the date for the maximum number of Aquaria stars will be on the 31st July.
According to the Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands (IAC), the conditions for observation this 2024 in the Archipelago are especially favorable. The clear sky and the absence of the Moon for a good part of the night will create an ideal environment to enjoy the rain of stars.
Experts assure that a considerable activity is expected with an intensity that can reach up to a quarter of that of the Perseids.
The show will begin at 10:45 p.m. with the appearance of the International Space Station (ISS) over the western horizon of the Canary Islands. The ISS will be visible for five minutes, disappearing after passing by the star Spica in the constellation of Virgo.
This event will mark the moment when the radiant of the Delta Aquarids will begin to be visible on the southeast horizon, shortly before Saturn makes its appearance.
The Moon, in a waning phase and with only one tenth of its surface illuminated, will not interfere significantly until after 04.20 in the morning. This will allow an ideal observation window from 22.45 to 04.20 hours, just after the radiant of the Aquarid Delta reaches its maximum altitude in the sky at 04.10 hours.
It is not necessary to climb the high mountain or use special instrumentation to enjoy this rain of stars. It is recommended to find a safe and dark place, away from light pollution. Take a coat and food for comfort and enjoy the night sky either alone or in company.
In addition, the presence of meteors from other less relevant rains can expand opportunities for observation and making wishes.
The observation of the Delta Aquarids is an excellent excuse to spend a few hours under the starry sky of the Canary Islands. With almost perfect conditions for observation, this is one of the best opportunities of the year to enjoy the majesty of the universe.