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Leonid Meteor Shower Peaks Predawn Nov. 17 Under Dark, Moonlight-Free Skies

A late-rising waning crescent should lift hourly rates to roughly 10–15 for observers at dark sites.

Overview

  • The peak occurs between midnight and dawn on Monday, Nov. 17, with the best viewing after the constellation Leo climbs higher in the eastern sky.
  • Debris from Comet 55P/Tempel‑Tuttle produces very fast meteors near 44 miles per second, often yielding bright fireballs and lingering trains.
  • Forecasts indicate no encounter with dense dust trails this year, so a meteor storm is not expected.
  • The Northern Taurids remain active this week and may add occasional slow, bright fireballs during the same nights.
  • For best results, find a dark location, lie back with a wide view, allow 20–30 minutes for night vision, and remember meteors can appear anywhere in the sky.