Stargazers in southern states have the opportunity to witness two meteor showers, the Southern Delta Aquariids and the Alpha Capricornids, peaking around the same time in July. These showers can be seen in the southern hemisphere and southern latitudes of the northern hemisphere. The Delta Aquariids move at a medium speed, while the Alpha Capricornids move at a slower pace.
The Southern Delta Aquariids will peak on the night of July 29 going into July 30, with the moon only 30% full, making it easier to observe the shower. This shower is best seen from the southern tropics, with experts recommending to look towards the southwestern sky if the moon is above the horizon. The Alpha Capricornids are expected to peak on the night of July 30 going into July 31, with the moon only 20% full. This shower is not very strong but is known to produce bright fireballs during its activity period.
Both meteor showers serve as a teaser for the Perseids, expected to peak on August 11 and 12. Observers are encouraged to watch the showers after midnight as some meteors may not be visible before the moon rises. The radiant point for both showers can be found north of the equator and lower in the southern sky. While the Delta Aquariids are usually faint meteors without persistent trains or fireballs, the Alpha Capricornids are known for producing bright fireballs.
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