Celestial enthusiasts are in for a treat this weekend as the annual Leonid meteor shower is set to reach its peak, offering a dazzling display of bright lights in the night sky, as noted by NASA. The celestial spectacle is anticipated to peak early Saturday morning, providing an opportunity for skygazers to witness nature’s magic. To fully enjoy the experience, NASA recommends grabbing a cozy blanket and spending the night on a balcony or an open space.
The Leonids, which occur each November, are derived from the debris left by Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, which completes an orbit around the sun every 33 years. These meteors are known for their brightness and can even exhibit vibrant colors, making them a captivating sight. Traveling at remarkable speeds of around 44 miles per second, the Leonids are among the fastest meteors, adding to their allure.
Originating from Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, the Leonid meteor shower has been an annual occurrence since Earth passes through the debris trails left by the comet. Discovered independently in 1865 by Ernst Tempel and again in 1866 by Horace Tuttle, the comet’s name reflects the contributions of both astronomers.
The 2023 Leonid meteor shower commenced on November 3 and is expected to continue until December 2, with the peak activity anticipated this Saturday. Clear conditions will enable observers to enjoy a delightful display before dawn on Friday or late at night on the same day.
For the best viewing experience, NASA suggests the early morning of November 18, an hour or two before sunrise, when Leo the Lion, the radiant point for the shower, will be highest in the eastern sky. However, weather conditions may impact visibility, with the Midwest and parts of the Southeastern United States expected to have clearer skies between 1:00 am and 4:00 am local time on Saturday morning, while the West and East coasts may experience reduced visibility due to rain and cloud cover, according to early forecasts by the National Weather Service.
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