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Leonids Set to Peak Nov. 17–18 With Dark Skies Favoring 10–20 Meteors an Hour

A slim, roughly nine-percent moon should keep the sky dark for a clear look at this fast, bright shower.

Overview

  • The maximum is expected overnight on November 17–18 as Earth passes through debris from comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle.
  • Forecasters call for a steady display of roughly 10–15, up to about 20, meteors per hour rather than a storm.
  • Viewing is best from midnight to dawn when the radiant in the constellation Leo rises higher in the sky.
  • Leonid meteors are among the fastest at about 70 km per second and can leave vivid, green-tinged trails.
  • The shower remains active through late November, with the clearest views from dark sites after 15–20 minutes of eye adjustment.