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Last night, stargazers were in luck because Perseid meteor shower It brings a gorgeous feast to the night sky of Malta.
This annual astronomical event is known in Maltese asTears of St. Lawrence (Tears of St. Lawrence), which usually occurs when the Earth passes through the debris field of Comet Swift-Tuttle.
Photo: Joseph CaruanaWhen particles shed by comets come into contact with Earth’s atmosphere, they heat up, glow, and streak spectacular flashes across the sky as meteors, or shooting stars.
Across Malta, enthusiasts gather in some of the darkest spots on the island in the hope of escaping the effects of light pollution and viewing the astronomical light show.
Photo: Joseph CaruanaAt De Vigera in Gozo, the car park was packed with people, the silence broken by the occasional murmur of voices and exclamations of wonder, and it was clear that the public had gone all out to enjoy the event.
Joseph Caruana, professor at the Department of Physics and the Institute of Space Science and Astronomy, told Times of Malta The event was overall a peaceful community event.
Photo: Joseph CaruanaHe said: “Because of the darkness in the sky over Dvera, which is what allows the Perseid meteor shower to shine, people couldn’t see where other people were.”
“Every time a bright meteor flies by, a low sighing sound is heard across the rugged landscape, reminding people of their presence. The eerie calls of petrels on the cliffs echo over the water, creating a surreal atmosphere at times.”
He said such enthusiastic participation was a testament to people’s growing interest in enjoying nature-based activities.
“People want to be able to enjoy nature. Yesterday, crowds gathered in small groups at the best remaining dark sites on the island to watch this annual astronomical event, reaffirming the public’s interest in and fascination with the night sky – our shared heritage,” said Caruana.
Photo: Daniel Cassar AlpertHe added that it was a shame that the attraction did not receive all the protection it deserved, including monitoring of protected dark areas across the country to combat light pollution.
In Mirafera, Rabat, Daniel Casal Alpert, who was taking part in a gathering to watch the Perseid meteor shower in the area, said conditions were less than calm at times but calmed down later in the evening.
Photo: Daniel Cassar Alpert“At times, the atmosphere is a bit busy, with cars coming and going, causing some light pollution,” he said.
“However, around 1am, most people had left and it became quiet, with a gentle breeze, making it feel like a lovely summer night to sit back, relax and enjoy the view from above.”
Last year, the Malta Astronomical Society organized a stargazing event to watch the Perseid meteor shower. Light PollutionIt ruined the annual event for the attendees.
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