Heads up, stargazers! The Leonid meteor shower is here, peaking tonight. As Earth travels through the debris left by comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, expect to see some beautiful shooting stars.
The Leonid meteor shower runs from November 3 to December 2, with its peak happening overnight on November 16-17. During this peak, you might spot up to 10 meteors per hour. They’ll radiate from the constellation Leo, making it a prime time for skywatching.
When to Look
Focus your gaze late on November 16 through dawn on November 17. Leo will be high in the eastern sky, with bright Jupiter gleaming nearby. Aim for a spot about 40 degrees above Leo—this is where those meteors will leave their longest trails.
Remember to Prepare
Dress warmly, as December nights can be chilly. Give your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness for the best chance to see fainter meteors. If you need a light, use a red flashlight to keep your night vision intact.
Robert Lunsford, a meteor expert, shares that watching for the Leonids can bring 5-10 meteors per hour on peak nights, but the numbers drop quickly afterward. “It falls off rapidly,” he explains. The next mornings will likely show even fewer meteors.
For some historical context, the Leonids are also known for their meteor storms. These rarer events, occurring about every 33 years, can unleash hundreds to thousands of shooting stars per hour. However, the next major storm won’t happen until 2099.
Fun Fact
Using social media, many fans of the night sky share their experiences under hashtags like #Leonids2023. It’s a great way to connect with others and see stunning images of meteors captured around the globe.
To learn more about this celestial wonder, you can visit the American Meteor Society for in-depth insights and updates.
So grab a cozy chair, your favorite hot drink, and enjoy the show!
