by Stargazers in Utah have an exciting cosmic calendar ahead this summer. While the iconic Perseid meteor shower peaks in August, July brings several noteworthy showers worth tracking from the Beehive State.
July Meteor Shower Highlights
- Southern Delta Aquariids
- Active: July 18 – August 12, 2025
- Peak: July 29–30; ZHR: ~15–20 meteors/hour
- Alpha Capricornids
- Active: July 7 – August 15
- Peak: July 31; known for occasional bright fireballs, although only ~2–5 meteors/hour
- July Pegasids
- Active: July 4 – August 8
- Peak: Around July 11; a weak shower (~3 meteors/hour)
- Perseids (Early Start)
- Active: July 14 – September 1
- Peak: August 12–13, but activity begins mid-July
Best Times to Look
- Evenings (~10 p.m. to midnight): Catch early meteors, especially for Alpha Capricornids and Pegasids.
- Pre-dawn hours (after midnight until dawn): Ideal for Southern Delta Aquariids and early Perseid sightings
Utah Viewing Spots
- Dark-sky parks and remote areas—Utah is known for its certified dark-sky sites, offering exceptional viewing conditions.
- Stay away from city light pollution; let your eyes adjust for about 30 minutes before expecting meteor activity.
Viewing Tips for Utah Stargazers
- Find a dark location: State parks or designated dark-sky zones are best.
- Watch late at night: Most showers yield their best activity after midnight.
- Pack smart: Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and warm layers for comfort under the stars.
- No equipment needed: Meteors are visible to the naked eye—no telescope required.
- Avoid moonlit nights: View moon phase calendar; darker skies improve visibility.
Looking Ahead to August
- Perseid Meteor Shower reaches its peak August 12–13, with a potential of 50–100 meteors/hour and spectacular fireballs—expect the best views in early morning hours under a dark sky.
- Moonlight may diminish visibility, especially during August 2025’s bright Sturgeon Moon.
Utah July 2025 Meteor Awareness
| Event | Active Dates | Peak Dates | Meteor Rate | Viewing Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Delta Aquariids | July 18–Aug 12 | July 29–30 | 15–20/hr | After midnight |
| Alpha Capricornids | July 7–Aug 15 | July 31 | 2–5/hr; fireballs | Late evening |
| July Pegasids | July 4–Aug 8 | ≈ July 11 | ~3/hr | Pre-dawn |
| Perseids (early) | July 14–Sep 1 | Aug 12–13 | Up to 100/hr | After midnight, best in Aug |
With several meteor showers lighting up July nights, Utah’s iconic landscapes offer prime stargazing opportunities. Make plans now—because sometimes, all it takes is a clear sky and a comfy blanket to experience the magic of a meteor shower.
