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Leonids Peak: Meteor Shower Lights Up Night Sky!
15 Nov
Summary
- Leonid meteor shower peaks on the night of November 17-18.
- Earth passes through Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle's debris field.
- Moonlight may obscure fainter meteors during the shower.
Skywatchers are in for a treat as the Leonid meteor shower reaches its zenith on the night of November 17-18. This spectacular annual event occurs when Earth passes through the debris trail left by Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, with tiny fragments burning up in our atmosphere.
Under ideal conditions with dark, clear skies, observers might witness between 10 to 15 meteors per hour. However, the presence of a first-quarter moon could potentially wash out some of the fainter shooting stars, reducing the overall count.
Optimal viewing is expected from late on November 17 through sunrise on November 18. The meteors will appear to radiate from the constellation Leo, giving the shower its name. To maximize viewing, find a location far from city lights and allow your eyes about 15-20 minutes to adjust to the darkness.
