If it feels like it’s been forever since you’ve seen shooting stars, get ready… The skies are about to deliver! After two-months of inactivity, three meteor showers are ramping up this month, including the spectacular Perseids, often called the best meteor shower of the year.

The Perseids officially kick off Thursday, July 17, and will stay active through August 23, peaking in mid-August with up to 100 meteors per hour. Known for their bright fireballs and long, colorful trails, they’re a favorite among stargazers (and because they peak in summer, you won’t have to bundle up to enjoy them). The show gets even better with two bonus meteor showers overlapping later this month. 

For the best viewing, head out between midnight and dawn, away from city lights and hope for clear skies. The only real obstacle? The moon. Its brightness could wash out some of the dimmer meteors, especially from the fainter Aquarids.

So, grab a blanket, find a dark spot, and look up, summer’s most magical light show is just beginning.