Did you see a shooting star tonight? Did you make a wish?
There’s something magical about witnessing shooting stars and meteor showers.
People have been amazed by these celestial events long before we understood anything about them. Meteorites, comets, and asteroids were viewed as mysterious objects sent from above and were often associated with religion, superstition, and spirituality.
Even today, though science has given us rational explanations for the amazing things we see above, we still can’t help but assign mystical and magical qualities to them. And perhaps for good reason.
Many believe that cosmic events, like meteor showers, have a strong effect on us. For instance, the Perseids are said to light a path to guide us toward a new direction we may be seeking. When they hit their peak in August, don’t be surprised if you’re struck with the inspiration to go somewhere new.
What does it mean to see a shooting star?
In most cultures, shooting stars and meteor showers are seen as gifts from a higher power. But some groups think they’re bad omens.
Indigenous tribes like the Kawaiisu believe falling meteors are a sign of illness and death. In certain parts of Asia, shooting stars are said to be tears from the moon and signal conflict and destruction. In 17th century England, some believed that comets foretold The Plague and the Great Fire of London that followed.
On the other hand, the Pawnee and Yolngu include meteors and falling stars as a part of their stories about reincarnation and souls passing on and see these events as good omens. In Ancient Greece, an astronomer named Ptolemy claimed that shooting stars would occur when the gods opened up the sky to watch the humans below. People started wishing upon the stars in hopes that the gods were listening at that very moment.
We believe that shooting stars and meteor showers are messages from the universe. The streak of light in the dark reminds us that hope always exists. If you see a shooting star, it may be the universe’s way of telling you to hold on, keep moving forward, and accept the changes ahead.
If you’re in a relationship, seeing a shooting star while you’re with your partner is a sign you’ve found your soulmate.
When are meteor showers in 2022?
Want to catch a meteor shower this year? These dates are the best nights to see shooting stars:
July 28–29 | Delta Aquarid
Aug 11–12 | Perseid meteor showers
Oct 8–10 | Draconid meteor showers
Oct 20–21 | Orionid
Nov 11–12 | Northern Taurid
Nov 16–17 | Leonid meteor showers
Nov 25–27 | Andromedid
Dec 13–14 | Geminids meteor showers
Dec 21–22 | Ursid
What’s the best place to see the meteor shower?
If you’re hoping to do some meteor watching, look up that specific meteor shower in relation to your location. The ability to see shooting stars depends on where you are in the world and where those meteors are traveling.
If the meteor shower is visible in your area, here’s how you can maximize your chances of seeing shooting stars:
- Get away from the city. Find a place unspoiled by bright city lights. You may need to plan a country drive or trip to a rural location.
- Avoid the full moon. Check the lunar cycle. When the moon is full and bright, it’s harder to see the meteor shower.
- Seek clear skies. A cloudy night blocks out shooting stars so chances are best when the weather is clear.
- Settle into the right spot. Choose a location where trees or structures won’t ruin your view. Lie back and let your eyes adjust to the night sky.
- Relax and be patient. You may not see any shooting stars immediately but give it some time and a spectacular shower may be in store.
Are you ready to catch a meteor shower and make a wish upon a shooting star? Grab a cozy blanket and head outside after sundown. Take the time to listen to the wisdom the universe is offering you. Meditate, journal, or just watch. Whatever you do, let the insight and inspiration in.
Want to know what seeing a shooting star means in your current situation? Ask a psychic, tarot reader, or spiritual advisor to help you interpret the signs and symbols in your life.
