Persides (Falling Stars)

Look up at the August starry sky and enjoy a prolific astronomical phenomenon: Perseids, or, as we call it, “peftasteria” (falling stars). What you see are not actual “falling” stars, but a meteor shower, a stream of particles ejected by the comet Swift-Tuttle.

The meteor shower is called Perseids because the point from which they appear to hail lies in the constellation of Perseus. The meteors often graze the Earth’s atmosphere producing long bright trails and sometimes fireballs. They can be seen across the sky, especially between midnight and dawn.

To enjoy the Perseid meteor shower, head out to the villages along the Heartland of Legends route. Far from the urban lights, you can enjoy a clear view of the horizon. Find the ideal location, lie down and make a wish. Who knows, it might come true even before you leave the island!