Stargazers are in for a treat this weekend as they could witness up to 10 meteors per hour during the Leonid meteor shower. This annual event, associated with the Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, will peak in the early hours of Monday, November 18. The Leonids are known for their fast and bright meteors, making them a spectacular sight for skywatchers.
To catch the best views of the meteor shower, experts advise finding a dark and safe location away from light pollution. The meteors can be seen with the naked eye, so there is no need for binoculars or a telescope. It is recommended to bring a comfortable chair, dress warmly, and allow your eyes to adjust to the dark for optimal viewing.
If you happen to miss the peak of the Leonid meteor shower, don’t worry. The shower will continue at a reduced rate for several days before and after the peak, giving you more chances to witness the celestial display. However, in 2024, viewing conditions may be unfavorable due to the Full Moon causing light pollution.
Shyam Balaji, a researcher in astroparticle physics and cosmology at King’s College London, suggests looking for the meteors away from city lights and sources of light pollution. The meteors will appear to radiate from the constellation Leo, which rises in the east around midnight. By lying flat on your back with your feet pointing east, you can take in as much of the sky as possible and increase your chances of seeing the meteors.
So, grab a blanket, find a comfortable spot under the night sky, and get ready to witness nature’s fireworks during the Leonid meteor shower this weekend. Don’t miss this opportunity to marvel at the beauty of the universe right above your head.
