July meteor double feature to light up skies
Two meteor showers will peak in succession at the end of July 2026: the faint Southern Delta Aquariids (peaking July 28–29), likely from Comet 96P Machholz, and the brighter Alpha Capricornids (July 30–31) from 169P/NEAT. Expect up to about 15 meteors per hour during the Delta Aquariids under dark skies, though the waxing gibbous Moon may wash some out; the Alpha Capricornids deliver slower, more luminous fireballs. Delta Aquariids are best seen from southern latitudes, while Alpha Capricornids are visible from both hemispheres. For best viewing, lie flat, gaze roughly halfway between the horizon and the sky above you, about 45 degrees from Aquarius, and give your eyes 30 minutes to adapt before dawn.