Peaking in mid-August ( Aug. 12 ), NASA considers this “the best meteor shower of the year,” noting, “With swift and bright meteors, Perseids frequently leave long ‘wakes’ of light and color behind them as they streak through Earth’s atmosphere.”

The full moon takes place a mere three days before the Perseids meteor shower peaks, and 11 days before the next planet parade.

The full moon occurs on the 9th in the constellation of Aquarius — the Perseid meteor showers peak from August 11-13. Venus and Jupiter conjoin for a summer kiss as the two planets will shine bright together at just a degree apart on August 11 and 12, according to NASA. The two planets will be visible to the east before sunrise.