Starry Sky Date: It’s Time for the Leonid Meteor Shower Again!

The King of Meteor Showers: The Leonids Take Center Stage

The Leonid meteor shower, often hailed as the “King of Meteor Showers,” is one of the highlights of November’s celestial events. According to astronomy experts, this year’s peak activity is expected on the 18th, with a Zenithal Hourly Rate (ZHR) of 10 to 15—meaning under ideal conditions, observers can expect to see 10 to 15 meteors per hour at the shower’s peak.

Origins of the Leonids

Meteor showers are typically produced by comets, and the Leonids originate from Comet Tempel-Tuttle, the 55th periodic comet with an orbital period of approximately 33.3 years around the Sun.

A Glorious History

Xiu Lipeng, a member of the Chinese Astronomical Society and an astronomy popularization expert, notes that the Leonids have had spectacular performances in history. The most recent “highlight” occurred in 2001, when the night sky was ablaze with bright meteors—thousands per hour at peak—creating a breathtaking “rain of stars” effect.

Post-2001, the Leonid meteor shower quieted down significantly. While it reliably appears every mid-November, the ZHR usually hovers around 20.

What to Expect in 2023?

Will this year bring a “mini-peak”? “No,” says Xiu. “Comet Tempel-Tuttle’s next perihelion passage is in 2031, eight years from now. Barring extremely unusual circumstances, no outburst is expected during this period.”

Optimal Viewing Tips

During peak activity, the radiant point of the Leonids rises to a favorable altitude after midnight, making the predawn hours—especially just before sunrise—the prime time for observation.

Xiu recommends enthusiasts observe between the night of November 17th and the early hours of the 18th. On the 17th, the moon sets around 8 PM, eliminating lunar interference for later viewing. Though recent years have seen modest displays, the Leonids still occasionally produce dazzling fireballs streaking across the sky at high speeds, making the wait worthwhile.

Viewing Advice

No telescopes are needed—just your eyes! Scan the entire night sky, as meteors can appear anywhere. Xiu also reminds observers to bundle up, as early winter nights can be bitterly cold.