Leonids Meteor Shower to Light Up the UK Skies in November

The Leonids meteor shower, known for its fast and bright meteors, is set to peak over the UK skies this November. Stargazers can expect to see up to 15 meteors per hour as dust grains from the tail of comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle strike Earth’s atmosphere at remarkable speeds of up to 70km per second, leaving bright, lingering trails in their wake.

When and Where to Watch the Leonids

Although the Leonids are active from 6th – 30th November, they are expected to reach their peak viewing period between the night of 17th November and the early hours of 18th November. The best time to view the meteor shower will be after midnight on the 18th, with meteors appearing to radiate from the constellation Leo, visible to those looking east from London.

For those hoping to catch a glimpse, it’s advised to wrap up warmly, bring a comfortable chair, and enjoy the night sky. As with most meteor showers, patience is key. The clear November night skies may offer a stunning display, with meteors streaking across in all directions.

Why the Leonids Meteor Shower is Special

The Leonids meteor shower is known not only for its annual show but also for its rare meteor storms. Roughly every 33 years, the Leonids produce intense outbursts, allowing observers to witness thousands of meteors in just one hour. Past meteor storms occurred in 1833, 1866, 1966, and 1999, with breathtaking displays reported worldwide. However, the next anticipated meteor storm won’t occur until 2032, making this year’s regular shower an exciting opportunity for enthusiasts to witness the Leonids until the next storm arrives.

What Causes the Leonids Meteor Shower?

The Leonids originate from debris left behind by comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle. As Earth passes through this trail of dust and particles, the debris collides with our atmosphere at incredible speeds, creating the meteors we see as streaks of light. Due to their high velocity and brightness, Leonids meteors are often visible even in areas with moderate light pollution, making them one of the more reliable and enjoyable showers for UK observers.

Tips for Observing the Leonids

For the best chance of viewing the Leonids meteor shower, find a location with minimal light pollution, such as a countryside spot or a high point away from city lights. To maximise comfort, bring a deck chair to lie back and view the sky with an unobstructed perspective. The shower will radiate from the constellation Leo, so focusing your gaze eastward after midnight should increase the chances of seeing the meteors.

Royal Astronomical Society, which provides resources and updates on celestial events, including meteor showers.

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