The best view of the Perseid meteor shower is after sunset until just before sunrise . The annual sky show happens when Earth passes near Comet Swift - Tuttle 's tail . A waning crescent moon means less light in the sky to compete with the meteor display . Bright streaks are ` ` ' dust '' burning up as it mixes with our atmosphere . The meteor shower is entertainment for most , but a second chance for NASA .
The best view of the Perseid meteor shower is after sunset until just before sunrise . The annual sky show happens when Earth passes near Comet Swift - Tuttle 's tail . Bright streaks are ` ` ' dust '' burning up as it mixes with our atmosphere . The meteor shower is entertainment for most , but a second chance for NASA .