What is the Leonid Meteor Shower?
The Leonid meteor shower is one of the most storied celestial events in the night sky. It occurs when Earth passes through the debris trail left by comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle. As tiny particles slam into our atmosphere at high speed, they vaporize, creating streaks of light known as meteors or shooting stars. This shower is known for periodic meteor storms, but even on a typical year, observers can enjoy a lively display during its peak week.
When to Watch
The shower runs from early November through early December, with its peak nights offering the best chance to see the most meteors. For this year, be prepared for a bright display in the hours after astronomical twilight ends and the sky is fully dark. Remember that the key is dark, clear skies away from bright city lights. Check local weather and cloud forecasts the evening of your planned viewing to maximize your chances.
Best Viewing Tips
To make the most of the Leonid peak, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Find a dark site: Rural parks, countryside viewpoints, or beaches typically offer the darkest skies. Light pollution maps can help you choose a good location.
- Give your eyes time to adapt: Allow 20–30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Avoid looking at bright screens or car headlights nearby.
- Look toward the radiant: The Leonids emanate from the constellation Leo’s radiant point near the Sickle of Leo. While meteors can appear across the sky, you’ll increase your odds by focusing your gaze roughly halfway up in the eastern to southern sky.
- Dress for comfort: Nights can be chilly in November. Bring warm clothing, blankets, and a reclining chair to watch comfortably.
- Be patient: Meteor activity can be variable. Give the sky time—watching for an hour or more often yields a handful of bright favorites as well as a steady peppering of fainter streaks.
- Capture the moment safely: If you’re photographing, use a wide-angle lens, a stable tripod, and long exposure. Start with 15-20 second exposures at f/2.8–f/4, and adjust based on results.
What to Expect This Year
Leonid activity hinges on a balance of factors, including the density of debris in the trail and how Earth intersects it during its orbit. While a dramatic meteor storm isn’t guaranteed, observers can anticipate a generous display, with the potential for bright fireballs on select nights. The meteor shower’s long duration means you may still catch a good number of meteors even on nights close to the peak.
What’s Special About the Leo Radiant
The radiant point in Leo is where the shower’s meteors appear to originate. This apparent motion is due to Earth’s own movement through space; meteoroids enter our atmosphere at high speeds, burning up and leaving luminous trails. The Leonids are famous for their speed and the occasional bright fireball, making them a favorite among skywatchers who enjoy a sense of motion and drama in the night sky.
Safety and Etiquette for Night Sky Observing
When stargazing in groups, share space with others, minimize equipment noise, and leave no trace. Respect wildlife and local regulations, and always plan safe travel to and from your observing site, especially if you’re in a remote area late at night.
Plan Your Viewing Tonight
Check local sunset and moonrise times, then choose a dark viewing location within a reasonable drive. Bring a thermos, a folding chair, and a star-chart app to help you identify constellations and the radiant point. With a little luck and patience, you’ll witness the Leonid meteor shower’s atmospheric display and the magic of shooting stars lighting up the night.
