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 .
The best view of the Perseid meteor shower is after midnight until just before sunrise . The annual sky show happens when Earth passes near Comet Swift-Tuttle 's path . Bright streaks are `` interplanetary dust '' burning up as it collides with our atmosphere . The meteor show is entertainment for most , but a research chance for NASA .