A fabulous Perseid meteor shower illuminated the night sky in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in the early hours of Wednesday. More than 200 enthusiasts from across the country gathered in Shapotou District to enjoy the spectacular celestial firework display under the desert night sky. "The Perseid meteor shower happens around this time each year, typically peaking around August 13. At its peak, you can spot many meteors, sometimes seeing dozens in just one hour," said Cao Jun, an associate researcher at the Beijing Planetarium. The Shapotou District is located in the golden latitude for stargazing at 37°N. About eight kilometers into the Tengger Desert, it is far from urban light pollution and has an average elevation of 1,430 meters. The region enjoys nearly 300 days of clear weather annually and excellent atmospheric transparency, making it a perfect spot for observing meteor showers. This year, it also hosts the annual Star Party for astronomy lovers. "As our country's economy develops, more and more people are becoming interested in astronomy, especially children. We aim to bring enthusiasts of all levels together to share experiences and observations. If we can coincide this with a major astronomical event, it makes it even more meaningful," said Kou Wen, a chief science popularization expert at the Beijing Planetarium. According to the Beijing Planetarium, the five-day Star Party offers astronomy enthusiasts a chance to enjoy stargazing in the desert and connect with one another. It also features engaging lectures from experts. SHOTLIST: Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, northwest China – Aug 13, 2025 1. Various of meteor shower; 2. SOUNDBITE (Chinese) Cao Jun, associate researcher, Beijing Planetarium (ending with shot 3): "The Perseid meteor shower happens around this time each year, typically peaking around August 13. At its peak, you can spot many meteors, sometimes seeing dozens in just one hour."; 3. Various of meteor shower; 4. Various of spectators; 5. SOUNDBITE (Chinese) Kou Wen, chief science popularization expert, Beijing Planetarium (starting with shot 4): "As our country's economy develops, more and more people are becoming interested in astronomy, especially children. We aim to bring enthusiasts of all levels together to share experiences and observations. If we can coincide this with a major astronomical event, it makes it even more meaningful."; Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, northwest China – Aug 12, 2025 6. Opening ceremony of Star Party 2025; 7. Various of lecture, audience. [Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]