The Perseids are one of the most visually spectacular meteor showers of the year and are known for spawning impressive fireballs that light up the night sky.

Under a moonless dark sky away from light pollution, the Perseids can produce up to 75 meteors per hour on the peak night — more than one meteor per minute. This year, an 84%-lit moon will rise shortly after it gets dark on Aug.

Stargazers recommend setting up around 10 p.m., though the real action builds between 2–4 a.m. Just lie back, give your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust, and look roughly 40 degrees above the horizon (about four fist-widths held at arm’s length).