York University astronomer Elaina Hyde joins to explain why tonight's Perseid meteor shower is worth staying up for, and why the conditions line up so rarely. She traces the shower back to debris left by comet Swift-Tuttle, last seen up close in 1992, and explains why that leaves a fresher trail than most years offer.

She walks through what makes tonight ideal, no moonlight to wash out the fainter streaks, thanks to an assist from this week's earlier solar eclipse, and why waiting until closer to midnight can actually improve the angle of what you see. She also flags a total lunar eclipse coming August 27th, visible from coast to coast.

If clear skies cooperate, this is the night to look up.

Topics: Perseid meteor shower peak, Swift-Tuttle debris, dark sky viewing Canada, lunar eclipse August, astronomy Canada

GUEST: Elaina A. Hyde

Originally aired on 2026-08-12

York University astronomer Elaina Hyde joins to explain why tonight's Perseid meteor shower is worth staying up for, and why the conditions line up so rarely. She traces the shower back to debris left by comet Swift-Tuttle, last seen up close in 1992, and explains why that leaves a fresher trail than most years offer.
She walks through what makes tonight ideal, no moonlight to wash out the fainter streaks, thanks to an assist from this week's earlier solar eclipse, and why waiting until closer to midnight can actually improve the angle of what you see. She also flags a total lunar eclipse coming August 27th, visible from coast to coast.
If clear skies cooperate, this is the night to look up.
Topics: Perseid meteor shower peak, Swift-Tuttle debris, dark sky viewing Canada, lunar eclipse August, astronomy Canada
GUEST: Elaina A. Hyde
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-08-12

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.