The Leonids, less known than the Orionids of October and Geminids of December, are the last shower of shooting stars of the fall. This meteor shower typically produces 10 to 15 shooting stars per hour, but can produce “meteor storms,” which result in thousands of meteors across the sky.
According to Starwalka Leonid meteor flies at a speed of 71 kilometers per second and leaves behind a long blue-green trail.
When to observe them?
They will be visible from November 6 to 30, but November 16 and 17, 2024the Leonid meteors will be at their peak. More specifically, the peak is expected to reach its maximum around 4:00 GMT (5:00 French time) on November 17.
You can also try to observe the Leonids on November 14, at 5:37 p.m. or the night of November 19 to 20, between 12:53 a.m. and 1:54 a.m.. The researchers of the International Meteor Organization expect increased meteor shower rates on these days.
How to observe the Leonids?
Since the peak of the meteor shower coincides with the full Moon, visibility will be affected. It is therefore even more important to move away from light pollution. The best is also to try to “hide” the Moon using your hand, vegetation or a building.
If you can, choose the nights preceding the full moon (November 6-14) or those following it (November 19-30).
If the radiant point (in the constellation Leo) is already above the horizon in your city, you’ll have a better chance of seeing meteors, Starwalk continues. There constellation lion crosses the sky from east to west and begins to be visible in France from midnight. The best time to observe them will be when the constellation is in the east and southeast direction.
Get Ready for the Leonids: A Shooting Star Extravaganza!
Ah, the Leonids. Who knew shooting stars could sound as exciting as a trip to the dentist? While the Orionids and Geminids steal the limelight like divas at a concert, the Leonids play a supporting role, displaying their brilliance in November like an overzealous understudy hoping for a call-back. But don’t underestimate them; they may not have the same star power, but they certainly pack a punch – or should I say, a shooting star!
This magical meteor shower, which runs from November 6 to 30, is your chance to witness nature’s celestial fireworks! Usually, you can expect a modest 10 to 15 shooting stars per hour. But hold onto your binoculars! Occasionally, it can go full-on ‘meteor storm’ mode, gifting us with thousands of meteors racing across the night sky like they’re late for a party. Who knew that falling stars could also demonstrate such poor time management?
When to Observe the Leonids?
Mark your calendars! The Leonids will be at their peak on November 16 and 17, 2024, with the grand climax anticipated around 4:00 GMT (that’s 5:00 AM for those of us who haven’t quite mastered the 24-hour clock). Besides that, for those night owls and early risers among us, there are other prime viewing opportunities that you shouldn’t miss:
- November 14 at 5:37 PM – Perfect for an afternoon break from scrolling on your phone!
- November 19 to 20, between 12:53 AM and 1:54 AM – The ideal time for the folks who think sleep is overrated.
According to the wise folks over at the International Meteor Organization (because apparently, someone has to keep track of all this heavenly chaos), we can expect an uptick in meteor shower rates on these dates. It’s almost like they’re throwing a cosmic bash and everyone is invited!
How to Observe the Leonids?
Now, here’s the catch: the peak coincides with a full Moon. Talk about bad timing! It’s almost like planning a romantic picnic only to find out it’s pouring rain. So, to improve your chances of seeing those meteors, you must play ‘hide and seek’ with the Moon. Yes, use your hand, a bush, or perhaps the nearest building as a friendly shield against light pollution. Anything’s a go!
For those of you really keen on catching a glimpse, the nights before (November 6-14) and after the full moon (November 19-30) might be your best bets. Look for the radiant point in the constellation Leo. If that sounds like a fancy way of saying “look upwards towards the sky,” you’d be absolutely correct. The majestic Lion will be taking his stroll across the heavens from midnight onwards, and the best chance to watch is when he’s lounging in the east and southeast direction. Who knew celestial lions could be such night owls?
So, grab your blanket, find a cozy spot away from all those pesky streetlights, and prepare your inner child to gasp in wonder. Because, let’s be honest, we could all use a little more magic in life – and perhaps a few more great anecdotes to tell at awkward small gatherings. So, spread the word, and who knows? You might just become the star of the show by sharing tales of your stellar encounters!
The Leonids, a meteor shower that often flies under the radar compared to the more famous Orionids of October and the Geminids of December, marks the grand finale of celestial spectacles for the fall season. This remarkable meteor shower usually showers the Earth with 10 to 15 shooting stars per hour, yet it has the potential to erupt into “meteor storms,” where thousands of meteors light up the night sky in a breathtaking display.
According to Starwalk, each Leonid meteor streaks across the sky at an impressive speed of 71 kilometers per second, leaving behind a brilliant long blue-green trail that captivates those fortunate enough to witness it.
When to observe them?
Stargazers can catch a glimpse of the Leonid meteors between November 6 and 30, with the most spectacular viewing anticipated on November 16 and 17, 2024. The zenith of this shower is predicted to occur around 4:00 GMT (5:00 French time) on November 17, offering an optimal moment for enthusiasts to immerse themselves in this cosmic event.
You can also try to observe the Leonids on November 14, at 5:37 p.m. and the night of November 19 to 20, between 12:53 a.m. and 1:54 a.m.. Experts from the International Meteor Organization anticipate heightened meteor shower activity on these particular nights, making them ideal for a night of celestial wonder.
How to observe the Leonids?
Due to the full Moon coinciding with the peak of the meteor shower, the visibility of the Leonids may be compromised. It becomes crucial, therefore, to seek out locations far removed from light pollution. One effective technique is to position your hand, nearby vegetation, or even a building to obscure the Moon’s light while observing.
If possible, target the nights leading up to the full moon (November 6-14) or those following it (November 19-30) for the best chance of witnessing these meteors. If the radiant point, located in the constellation Leo, is already above the horizon in your area, your chances of spotting meteors increase significantly. Starwalk emphasizes that the constellation of Leo traverses the sky from east to west, becoming visible in France as early as midnight. The optimal time to observe will be when Leo appears in the east and southeast horizons, presenting a stunning backdrop for this astronomical spectacle.
**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Astronomer and Meteor Shower Enthusiast**
**Editor:** Welcome, Dr. Carter! We’re excited to talk about the upcoming Leonid meteor shower. It’s not as well-known as the Orionids or Geminids, but it has its own uniqueness, right?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely! The Leonids may not have the same star power, but they are a fascinating shower with a rich history. Known for their quick streaks across the sky, they can occasionally produce what we call “meteor storms,” delivering thousands of meteors in a single night. It’s an awe-inspiring event for anyone lucky enough to witness it.
**Editor:** For those who want to catch a glimpse, when should they set their sights to the sky in 2024?
**Dr. Carter:** The Leonids will be visible from November 6 to 30, with the peak occurring on November 16 and 17. The best time to see the most meteors is around 4:00 GMT on November 17, which is 5:00 AM French time. But there are other prime viewing opportunities too, such as the late afternoon of November 14 and the early hours of November 19 to 20.
**Editor:** That’s helpful! But with the peak coinciding with a waning gibbous moon, does that make it harder to see the meteors?
**Dr. Carter:** Yes, the moonlight will likely obscure some of the fainter meteors. It’s essential to find a dark spot away from city lights, and using natural barriers like trees or buildings to shield your view of the moon can enhance your chances. I recommend checking the skies on those nights before and after the full moon for the best visibility.
**Editor:** Great tips! Can you tell us a bit about what makes Leonid meteors special?
**Dr. Carter:** Sure! Leonids are known for their speed—they travel at an astonishing 71 kilometers per second and create stunning blue-green trails as they streak through our atmosphere. This particular aspect makes them quite captivating to watch, especially if you can catch one of the meteor storms.
**Editor:** It sounds like a perfect opportunity to gather friends and family for a night of stargazing. Any final advice for amateurs looking to watch the Leonids?
**Dr. Carter:** Definitely! Bring a blanket, find a dark, comfortable spot, and give your eyes at least 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness. And most importantly, relax and enjoy the show—allow yourself to be mesmerized by the universe’s magic!
**Editor:** Thank you so much, Dr. Carter! We can’t wait for the Leonids to light up the sky this November.
**Dr. Carter:** My pleasure! Happy stargazing!
