Unlock the Secrets to Experiencing the Most Dazzling Meteor Shower of Your Life

Is it too much to ask for Earth to just steer clear of cosmic shrapnel for once? Yet, here we are again, prepping our neck muscles and patience for another wild Perseid meteor shower—because apparently nothing says “summer magic” quite like squinting at the sky, bug spray in hand, squabbling over imaginary star patterns, and wondering whether you should’ve invested in blackout curtains instead. If you’re determined to make this year’s celestial show less about goosebumps and more about giggles (or, let’s be honest, a little sibling falling off dad’s shoulders), you’re in for a treat—assuming you can resist blinking at the wrong time or declaring interstellar war by accident. Ready to face the cosmic fireworks with all the unimpressed confidence of someone who’s read too many SEO blogs? Here’s what you really need to know before you dust off your lawn chair. LEARN MORE.

The Perseid meteor shower will soon light up the night sky as the Earth makes its annual transit through a stream of comet debris. The Onion shares tips for watching a meteor shower.

Reserve a good seat close to outer space.

Make sure to do all your blinking the night before.

Throw some rocks up there to get things started.

Avoid getting distracted by the constellation Sagittarius.

Take your little brother with you—he’s been inside all day.

Don’t look directly at a meteor, as that can be seen as a sign of aggression.

Hop up on daddy’s shoulders.