When can the Perseids be seen in Mallorca this 2021? Also known as Tears of San Lorenzo for the celebration of this saint on August 10, it is precisely this month when this meteor shower reaches its maximum activity. “The best day is a bit of a lottery, because when we talk about the Perseids we cannot give a certain figure but a forecast”, explains Alfredo Bonet, Vice President of Astro Mallorca.

As a representative of this astronomy fans association, Bonet offers the forecast by the experts to be able to enjoy the Perseids in Mallorca in 2021: “The maximum is expected on the night of August 11 to 12”. This famous meteor shower during the summer occurs due to the remnants of Comet Swift-Tuttle. “The comet has left material in orbit and when its wake is crossed, this phenomenon arises”, adds Bonet.

When to see the Perseids in Mallorca

“The optimal time to see more is around 4 in the morning. But since the sun sets, they can already be seen”, says Bonet. However, during these previous days the Tears of San Lorenzo have already made an appearance. “At Astro Mallorca we did an outing on Saturday August 7 at Cúber and we saw about 15 per hour. Although there weren’t many yet, we love to see them”. In any case, Bonet explains that during the days after this maximum meteor shower, expected for the night of August 11, this phenomenon will also be appreciated.

Where to see the meteor shower

perseidas mallorca 2021

Map of light pollution in Mallorca. Microsoft Corporation – TomTom / lightpollutionmap.com.

In 2021, the association has decided not to reveal where they will go to see the Perseids in Mallorca to avoid crowds. “We will communicate it only between the members, because the last time 400 people came”, recalls the Vice President. But he does point out several tips to be able to enjoy the Perseids in Mallorca:

  • Meet without crowds: “Any place with a dark sky is good to observe them, although Mallorca has a lot of light pollution. We try to look for very dark skies, it is not necessary to go to an optimal situation to see them. Better to go away from tourist areas, try to go to areas where there is less population.
  • Avoid mainly the area of Palma and the airport, “but also areas with poorly installed streetlights that illuminate upwards, etc.”.
  • Look for a clear horizon. “Although the Perseids radiate from the constellation of Perseus, they are visible throughout the northern hemisphere”.
  • Go to points without obstacles, without buildings and get comfortable and calm. “You don’t even need instruments such as telescopes or the like, so a hammock can be a good idea but, above all, open your eyes wide”, recommends Alfredo Bonet.