The peak of the meteor shower is expected to be on Monday, November 18
Stargazers could be treated to a spectacle this weekend as a meteor shower is set to light up the UK’s night sky. The Leonid meteor showers are one of the most prolific annual meteor showers.
This month, the Leonid meteor shower will be active throughout November from November 6 until November 30. Those expecting to catch the best glimpse of the spectacle should keep an eye out on Monday, November 18.
The Leonid meteor shower is associated with the Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle. As the comet follows its path around the sun, it leaves a path of tiny debris. The cometary debris enters our planet’s atmosphere at speeds of up to 70 kilometres per second, vaporising and causing the streaks of light we call meteors.
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Royal Museums Greenwich suggest the best way to watch the Leonid meteor shower is to have a comfy chair to sit on and to wrap up warm as timing can be unpredictable. They can be seen with the naked eye so there’s no need for binoculars or a telescope. If you miss the peak, the shower continues at a reduced rate for several days either side, so there should be plenty of chances to see the display.
For the best conditions, it is best to find a safe location away from street lights and other sources of light pollution. The meteors can be seen in all parts of the sky, so it’s good to be in a wide open space where you can scan the night sky with your eyes.
Unfortunately, In 2024 the Leonid meteor shower’s maximum occurs a few days after Full Moon, making viewing conditions quite unfavourable as the Moon’s natural light pollution will affect visibility.
According to the Met Office, the best displays will be seen in central, southern and eastern parts of the UK, as long as there are breaks between showers.
Operational meteorologist Dan Stroud said: “We have a waxing moon this weekend so there should be dark skies. There will be a band of wind and heavy rain moving across the country, but by the time the sun goes down on Saturday, most of it should have cleared, and there will be some decent breaks between showers. It will be hit and miss, but there’s a chance of clear spells, especially the further east you are.”
