Local skies are lighting up for the Perseid meteor shower, one of the summer’s most highly-anticipated natural phenomena. SoCal stargazers know that Joshua Tree is one of the best places to witness this glittering display, and the national park is bracing for droves of visitors during the shower’s peak between August 10-12, 2024.
A recent NPS press release warned visitors, local communities, and businesses about “delays of up to several hours while entering the park.” Joshua Tree is accustomed to seeing traffic surges during meteor showers and other major astronomical events, such as the Aurora Borealis sighting this past March. During the 2023 Perseids, thousands of visitors showed up on the same night, as seen in the video below.
Joshua Tree recommends buying entrance passes in advance at Recreation.gov to curb some of the delays. You can also consider alternative SoCal stargazing areas such as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Death Valley National Park, Borrego Springs, and more places certified by the International DarkSky Association.
What to know about the 2024 Perseid meteor shower
The Perseid meteor shower began on July 14th and is estimated to run through August 24th, 2024, with the peak anticipated between August 10th and 12th. This year, the shower’s peak coincides with a first-quarter moon setting before midnight. There will be less visibility compared to the 2023 shower, but you should still be able to see some of the action during the early morning hours.
The Perseid meteor shower happens every summer in July and August, and it’s been documented since 36 A.D. Astronomy enthusiasts see the Perseids as the year’s best meteor shower due to the dazzling long “wakes” left by meteors shooting across the sky. Depending on location and visibility, you could see over 100 meteors per hour during the shower’s peak. Find a comfortable spot with as little light pollution as possible, be patient while your eyes adjust, and settle in for an unforgettable show.