Leonid meteor shower visible this week with stunning light show - how to watch

16 November 2023 , 12:14

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The Leonid meteor shower is visible throughout the month but is at its peak this week (Image: AFP/Getty Images)

Stargazers could be in for a treat this week as a phenomenal meteor shower is set to peak and become more visible, experts have revealed.

The Leonid meteor shower, which produces bright meteors that shoot across the sky, is active between November 3 to December 3, however, members of the public are most likely to spot it between November 17 and 18. The stunning spectacle is created when Earth passes through the debris caused by 55P/Tempel-Tuttle during its orbit around the sun.

If lucky enough, stargazers could witness one of the most impressive celestial displays, as Leonoids are said to be some of the quickest meteors and can speed through the sky at 44 miles per second. It can also cause magnificent fireballs, producing long and colourful meteor streaks.

It has been reported that the moon will only be 23% illuminated on the date of the Leonid peak, which means it shouldn't get in the way of being able to see it too much. "The Moon will be a waxing crescent during the Leonid shower's maximum, making viewing conditions quite favourable," reports the Royal Museums Greenwich.

The meteors are bright and rapid (Getty Images)

How can I watch the Leonid meteor shower?

Brits have been told the best conditions to watch the shower is somewhere away from street lights and other methods of light pollution. The safeness of the location should also be considered. Searching for a wide-open space is also suggested as the meteors can be viewed in all parts of the sky, according to Space.com.

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Where is best to watch the Leonid meteor shower?

Experts have stressed that you could be outside for a while as looking for meteors can be a "waiting game." Meteors can be viewed with the naked eye so binoculars are not necessary. However, your eyes will need to adjust to the dark. If you miss the shower, then not to worry as you should have plenty of chances to see the spectacle as the show continues at a reduced rate for several days.

Met Office forecast

The Met Office forecast on Friday states that sunshine will start to become hazy in the southwest into the afternoon with rain moving through later on. Whilst Saturday is set to be wet and windy, with rain spreading northeastwards and showers following behind.

Monica Charsley