HAPPENING 12-13 AUG '26 | Look to the sky in the early hours, and you'll probably catch a glimpse of the Perseid meteor shower. At its peak, expect to see an average of 60 meteors per hour.
The Perseid meteor shower graces our skies every summer, starting in July and culminating in August. Originating from the Perseus constellation, the number of visible meteors can vary, but the experience is always breathtaking. The Swift-Tuttle comet is responsible for this annual spectacle. As it orbits close to Earth, its debris enters our atmosphere, disintegrating at an altitude of about 100 kilometres. These fragments, often no larger than dust particles, create the brilliant streaks of light we adore as shooting stars.
When to watch the Perseid meteor shower in Rotterdam
The Perseid meteor shower is active from the middle of July to late August, with the peak occurring on the night of August 12 into the early hours of August 13. During this peak in 2026, you can expect to see up to 90 meteors per hour under optimal conditions.
This year is exceptionally special. The peak coincides exactly with a New Moon, meaning the sky will be zero percent illuminated. With no moonlight to wash out the fainter trails, you are guaranteed perfect, dark skies for meteor viewing. The best time to view the meteor shower is from midnight to dawn, with the absolute peak for the Netherlands expected around 3:45 AM. Set your alarm and prepare for an incredible night.
A rare double feature: The August 12 Solar Eclipse
Before you stay up for the meteors, there is another spectacular event you simply must not miss. On the evening of August 12, Rotterdam will witness its largest partial solar eclipse since 1999. Starting at 19:16 CEST, the moon will pass in front of the sun, reaching a maximum coverage of 88.7 percent at 20:11 CEST. The eclipse will conclude around 21:03 CEST, just before sunset. If you plan to watch, please ensure you use certified eclipse glasses, as looking directly at the sun is never safe. Between the evening eclipse and the early morning meteors, August 12 offers a truly rare astronomical double feature.
Where to see the Perseid meteor shower in Rotterdam
While light pollution in urban areas like Rotterdam can obscure the meteor shower, there are still several good spots to catch a glimpse of the Perseids:
- Skiberg in Bergschenhoek: This elevated vantage point offers a clearer view of the night sky away from the city's bright lights.
- Peripheral Parks: Parks on the outskirts of Rotterdam, such as Kralingse Bos or Het Park, can provide less obstructed views.
Urban areas, with their abundant light pollution, can sometimes obscure the meteor shower. For an unobstructed view, consider traveling to provinces like Drenthe, Friesland, or the Wadden islands.
Tips for a great viewing experience
Consider bringing a reclining chair or a blanket so you can lie back and enjoy the sky without straining your neck. Moreover, even in August, nights can get chilly, so bring warm blankets and dress in layers. Don't forget to pack some refreshments to keep you comfortable during the night. At first, allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for about 30 minutes to see the meteors more clearly, and do your best to avoid looking at your phone or any other bright lights.
If you can't quite picture it, check out this news report of a previous meteor shower, as experienced from the Skiberg.
