Perseid meteor shower 2026 will peak over Maryland during the night of August 12–13. A new moon should provide exceptionally dark skies, reports the Baltimore Chronicle.
The American Meteor Society confirms that the Moon will be 0% illuminated. The NASA Perseids guide identifies Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle as the shower’s source.
What time is the Perseid meteor shower in Baltimore?
Viewing can begin around 10 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12. However, the best period should come after midnight and continue before dawn on August 13.
The radiant rises higher throughout the night. Therefore, observers may see more meteors between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
Under rural skies, the American Meteor Society expects 30–50 visible Perseids per hour. The theoretical rate may reach 100 under perfect conditions.
| Date | Recommended time | Expected conditions |
|---|---|---|
| August 12 | After 10 p.m. | Early meteors may appear |
| August 13 | 1–5 a.m. | Best viewing window |
| August 13 | Before dawn | Radiant highest in the sky |
Cloud cover remains the main uncertainty. Check the local forecast before leaving Baltimore.
Where to see the Perseids near Baltimore without city lights
Several Maryland locations offer darker horizons than central Baltimore:
- Patapsco Valley State Park is convenient, but regular areas may close after sunset.
- Gunpowder Falls State Park also generally operates from sunrise to sunset.
- Assateague Island offers much darker coastal skies and wide ocean horizons.
- Western Maryland counties provide lower light pollution and higher elevations.
- Tuckahoe State Park offers after-hours stargazing permits by advance request.
Do not assume every parking area remains open overnight. Gunpowder Falls officially closes at sunset, while after-hours access elsewhere may require camping reservations or park approval.
The federal section of Assateague Island National Seashore provides the strongest option for dedicated observers. Visitors should verify current entrance, parking and overnight rules before departure.
How to watch the Perseids in Maryland
Choose an open area with a broad view of the sky. Face away from Baltimore’s light dome and avoid looking directly at bright phones.
Allow your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust. No telescope is required because meteors can cross any part of the sky.
The darkest location is not useful when access is restricted. Confirm park hours, take a red flashlight and remain within authorized areas.
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