Oregon’s night skies will come alive this month as the Perseid meteor shower peaks around August 12-13, offering skywatchers a chance to witness spectacular streaks of light from remnants of comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. This beloved annual event is known for its vibrant displays, typically allowing 50 to 75 meteors per hour under optimal conditions. However, this year’s viewing may be affected by a waning moon, limiting visibility to the brightest meteors, with estimates around a dozen per hour. Prime viewing locations include the Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary near Bend, as well as educational programs available at local sites such as Prineville Reservoir State Park, Pine Mountain Observatory, and Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory, where guided stargazing experiences are offered.