Tonight marks the peak of the 2023 Leonid Meteor Shower, one of astronomy’s most captivating events of the year. While we’re used to seeing bright, powerful displays from this meteor shower in past years, this year will be of particular interest to sky watchers as the Leonid’s tend to come around every 33 years, it’s been 33 years since the last peak of activity.
For those interested in catching a glimpse of the Leonids, the best time to watch them is in the early morning hours, after midnight has passed. However, for optimal viewing you should head outside a few hours ahead of the sunrise and set your eyes heavenwards. The meteors will be radiating from a point in the constellation Leo, which will be in the eastern sky at that time, the further east you look the better!
The Leonids are known for producing bright meteors that often leave trails of light behind them. It is thought that up to 15 meteors may be seen in every hour, with each meteor lasting for four to five seconds. Since the shower is forecast to peak closer to dawn, give your eyes around fifteen minutes to adjust to the dark night sky and you should be able to observe the shower in all its glory.
While you are out watching the Leonids, don’t forget to appreciate the spectacular backdrop of stars and galaxies in the night sky and admire the work of our Creator. So, grab a blanket, take a few friends and a thermos of hot cocoa, and observe the last spectacular meteor shower of 2023!