Tonight is the long-awaited peak of the last major meteor shower of 2023 – the Leonids – and the celestial show promises to be especially dazzling. This annual celestial event occurs when Earth passes through the orbit of the comet Tempel-Tuttle, creating a stunning natural display of bright streaks of color seen in the night’s sky.
The best time to watch the Leonids is in the early morning hours of the peak day, usually around 2 a.m. local time. Many counties, including most all of North America, will be in the prime viewing spot, but coordinate with your local research center appeal to help determine the best time to watch near you.
Visible from any dark, open sky location in the Northern Hemisphere, the Leonids will appear to originate from the constellation Leo — the Lion. As the meteors pass through our atmosphere, they will burn up, producing flashes of light that will move across the sky relatively quickly. Some could even be visible for several seconds, offering an even more magnificent show.
Since the meteor shower tends to produce fewer meteors each hour than most other events, it is advised to be patient while gazing at the sky. Additionally, give your eyes at least 15 minutes to adjust to the dark and utilize a chair with a headrest for comfort, as you can make one look even higher and further than if you were just standing.
To make your late-night excursion even more worthwhile, coordinate with local astronomy clubs and join them for group stargazing events. They may even use high-powered telescopes for extra clarity and detail, which can make for an Experience of a Lifetime.
The last meteor shower of 2023 is here and if weather conditions are on your side, this could be the meteor shower to remember. Take the opportunity now and start planning your night of whisst-watching!
