Sky-watchers around the globe are gearing up for the annual Leonid meteor shower, which will reach its peak soon. This shower will allow many to witness a spectacular celestial performance.
The peak viewing time is 1 p.m. ET on Monday, but early risers can start watching as early as 11 p.m. on Sunday. It’s best to look for meteors between 4 a.m. and sunrise local time, according to Robert Lunsford, the fireball report coordinator for the American Meteor Society.
Unlike other meteor showers, the Leonids have a sharp peak. This means there’s only one prime night for viewing. The source of these meteors is comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, which creates a brief but dazzling display as Earth passes through its debris trail.
On Sunday night, observers may spot “Earth grazers,” meteors that streak across a wide portion of the sky and last longer than usual. However, viewers might see fewer of these because much of the Leonid activity will be below the horizon.
Under clear skies, you can expect to see about 10 to 15 meteors per hour. In some years, the Leonids produce stunning meteor storms with over 1,000 meteors per hour. The last major storm occurred in 2002, but the 1966 event is particularly memorable. During that storm, meteors appeared to rain down, estimated at 40 per second, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
Meteor activity often occurs when the comet approaches the sun, as it takes about 33 years to complete one orbit. The next notable meteor shower connected to 55P/Tempel-Tuttle will be in 2033. While it might not be a storm, rates could reach around 100 meteors per hour.
For this year, keep an eye out for two more meteor showers: the Geminids on December 13-14 and the Ursids on December 21-22.
Meteor watching isn’t just beautiful; it’s also a way to connect with nature and science. Many enthusiasts share their experiences on social media, capturing the magic of the night sky. For those curious about more astronomical events, check out the American Meteor Society and EarthSky for updates.
So grab a blanket, find a dark spot away from city lights, and enjoy the wonders of the cosmos!
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