When and where across UK to get best view as Leonid meteor shower peaks tonight

17 November 2023 , 10:00

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These areas have the best chances at spotting the Leonid meteor shower (Image: Future Publishing via Getty Images)

Brits could witness a breathtaking light show into the weekend as an impressive meteor shower is set to peak from tonight - but some people will be luckier than others.

Stargazers could be fortunate enough to witness the stunning spectacle known as the Leonid meteor shower, which is visible throughout the whole month, but is most likely to be seen today and tomorrow.

The Leonid meteor shower creates bright and fast meteors that shoot across the night sky, and happens when Earth passes through the debris caused by 55P/Tempel-Tuttle during its orbit around the sun.

Royal Museums Greenwich shared how 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 view it. However, other external factors will sadly contribute to whether you will spot the celestial display.

The shower will peak between November 17 and 18 (AFP/Getty Images)

A cloud forecast by Met Office has revealed that some areas will have better viewing chances than others, especially on the second day of its peak. According to the forecast, from 6pm on Saturday, areas across the north east of England will have clearer skies such as Newcastle Upon Tyne. Other parts of England which are said to offer better access in the early evening include Manchester.

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Locals in Wales will also have an early shot at witnessing the facinating light show such as Newton ( Powys ), Caernarton and Pembroke. According to the maps, areas in Southern Western England including Plymouth and Exeter, will clear up from 7pm. Later on in the evening, around 9pm, more locations will become visible such as Birmingham in the Midlands. But, some of the worst areas seem to be London, Brighton, Dover and Southampton. However, visibility slightly increases as the night goes on. Meanwhile, Scotland is set to remain cloudy for the duration of the night.

Leonids 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. Royal Museums Greenwich said the best conditions to watch the shower is somewhere away from street lights and other sources of light pollution. Searching for a wide-open space is also recommended as the meteors can be seen in all parts of the sky. Although you might think equiptment is needed to view the display, meteors can be seen with the naked eye so binoculars and telescopes are not needed. Experts said the Leonid shower will continue at a reduced rate for several days.

Monica Charsley