Catch the Leonid Meteor Shower lighting up November skies

Leonid Meteor Shower (Image: Canva)

The Leonid meteor shower will peak on the night of 17th November. This annual event originates from debris left by comet Tempel-Tuttle. Meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Leo in November. Observers should look to the northeast after midnight for best views.

The Leonid meteor shower is an annual celestial event. It occurs when Earth passes through debris left by Comet Tempel–Tuttle. Tiny particles from the comet burn up in Earth’s atmosphere. This creates bright streaks across the sky called “shooting stars.” The shower is named after the constellation Leo, where meteors appear to originate.

The Leonid meteor shower peaks during the night of 17th November. It will be visible from most locations, mainly Northern Hemisphere regions. Best viewing time of this meteor will be after midnight up to dawn, around 1 AM EST, when Leo is well-placed.

Meteor showers like the Leonids occur when Earth crosses comet trails. The astronomers use showers to study meteoroid composition and orbital patterns. Historically, the Leonids have been linked with spectacular meteor storms. They remind us of the dynamic and changing Solar System environment.

Find a dark location away from city lights for best visibility. Best viewing occurs after midnight until early morning before dawn. Look toward the northeast near Leo for the meteor radiant.