Phl to observe ‘super moon’ tomorrow

MANILA, Philippines - Countries in the northern hemisphere, including the Philippines, will observe next week the “super moon,” which occurs when the Earth is closest to the moon, a phenomenon called “perigee.”

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Friday said the moon will be nearest to Earth at 358,258 kilometers at 2 a.m. tomorrow.

At that time, the moon is 48,280 kilometers closer to Earth than usual.

Meanwhile, the annual Perseids meteor shower will light up the night sky next week.

PAGASA said the Perseids will peak in the late evening of Aug. 12 until dawn.

“This year, however, the bright moon will cast an interfering glare across the nights of maximum activity, reducing visibility from 120 meteors per hour – the typical Perseid peak rate – to less than 30,” the weather bureau said.

“Early August might be the best time to watch as Earth plunges deeper into the debris stream before the moon becomes full,” it said.

PAGASA said August is one of the most popular times of the year to observe meteor showers.

“Meteors are easiest to see if there is no moonlight and light pollution at all and if the sky is clear,” it said.

The Perseids meteor shower radiates from the constellation Perseus, which is located in the eastern horizon during August.

“If the sky permits, the famous Perseids meteor shower will be observed with its peak in the late evening and early morning hours on Aug. 12 to 13,” PAGASA said. – With Lalaine Jimenea