by Arizona residents can look forward to a captivating night sky this July, as multiple meteor showers light up the summer skies. Here’s your guide to the best celestial shows of the month and how to enjoy them in the Grand Canyon State.
What’s Falling This July?
Southern Delta Aquariids
- Active: July 18 – August 12
- Peak: July 29–30 (ZHR ~15–20 meteors/hour)
- Details: Originates from comet 96P/Machholz; best seen after midnight in the southern sky
Alpha Capricornids
- Active: July 12 – August 12
- Peak: Around July 30 (ZHR ~2–5 meteors/hour)
- Details: Slower meteors; notable for occasional bright fireballs
July Pegasids
- Active: July 4 – August 8
- Peak: Around July 11 (ZHR ~3 meteors/hour)
- Details: Weak shower; best pre-dawn viewing
Early Perseids
- Active: July 14 – September 1
- Peak: August 12–13, but early meteors can be seen in July
When to Watch
- Mid-evening (~10 p.m. – midnight): Best for Alpha Capricornids and July Pegasids
- After midnight (especially 2–4 a.m.): Ideal viewing window for Southern Delta Aquariids
- Late July: Combine Southern Delta Aquariid and Alpha Capricornid watching around July 29–30
Arizona Viewing Spots
- Flagstaff & other dark-sky zones: Premium dark-sky locations with minimal light pollution
- State parks & remote deserts: Escape city lights and let your eyes adapt for better meteor spotting
- High mileage draft tip: Lay flat and look midway between horizon and zenith to maximize sky coverage
Stargazing Tips
- No gear needed: Visible to the naked eye—don’t clutter your hands with telescopes
- Dress warmly & comfortably: Bring blankets, chairs, and layers—desert nights can feel chilly
- Minimize light interference: Avoid flashlights and phone screens—give your eyes 20–30 minutes to adjust
- Moon phase matters: Dark moon around late July enhances viewing, especially for faint meteors
- Stay safe at night: Watch your step in rugged terrain and bring water for the dry summer air
Looking Ahead: August Preview
- Perseid Meteor Shower peaks August 12–13 — ~50–75 meteors/hour expected; however, a bright moon may reduce visibility
Quick View: July Meteor Calendar
| Shower | Activity Range | Peak Dates | Rate (ZHR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Delta Aquariids | Jul 18 – Aug 12 | Jul 29–30 | 15–20 meteors/hour |
| Alpha Capricornids | Jul 12 – Aug 12 | ~Jul 30 | 2–5 meteors/hour |
| July Pegasids | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | ~Jul 11 | ~3 meteors/hour |
| Early Perseids | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | Early July padding | Increasing toward August |
Southern Arizona’s clear skies and minimal light pollution make it one of the best places in the U.S. to watch July’s meteor showers. Whether you’re a casual viewer or an astronomy enthusiast, the celestial action unfolding this month is not to be missed.
