The Perseids are one of the most visually spectacular meteor showers of the year and are known for spawning impressive fireballs that light up the night sky.

Under a moonless dark sky away from light pollution, the Perseids can produce up to 75 meteors per hour on the peak night — more than one meteor per minute. This year, an 84%-lit moon will rise shortly after it gets dark on Aug.

One of the richest and steadiest meteor showers will fly over the night sky of Iowa this month, but sky conditions may hinder viewing.