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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Science
Shivali Best

Leonid Meteor Shower peaks tomorrow night - here's how to see it from the UK

If you’re a fan of stargazing, make sure you book tomorrow evening off in your diary.

The Leonid Meteor Shower will peak on Sunday night, providing you with the perfect opportunity to see a shooting star.

The shower runs annually from November 6-30, but peaks this weekend, at which point there will be around 15 meteors flying through the night sky every hour.

Best of all, the meteor shower will be visible with the naked eye, meaning there’s no need to splash out on expensive equipment to get involved!

Here’s everything you need to know about the Leonid Meteor Shower, including what it is and how to see it from the UK.

When is the Leonid Meteor Shower?

The Leonid Meteor Shower takes place every year from November 6-30.

The peak this year will be on the evening of November 17, so make sure you look to the skies then!

Meteor shower (Science Photo Library RM)

What’s the best time to see a meteor?

For your best chance of seeing a meteor, look to the skies around midnight.

You’ll have to be eagle-eyed though - Leonids travel at speeds of 44 miles/second, and are considered the fastest meteors out there!

Where do the meteors come from?

The Leonids come from pieces of debris from Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle.

Leonid meteor shower November 1998 (Getty)

NASA explained: “When comets come around the sun, the dust they emit gradually spreads into a dusty trail around their orbits.

“Every year the Earth passes through these debris trails, which allows the bits to collide with our atmosphere where they disintegrate to create fiery and colourful streaks in the sky.”

Meteor is spotted lighting up the skies over Canada

Tips for seeing a meteor

Meteors are most easily seen in dark areas well away from the city or street lights, so head for the countryside.

NASA advised: “Orient yourself with your feet towards east, lie flat on your back, and look up, taking in as much of the sky as possible.

“In less than 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adapt and you will begin to see meteors.

“Be patient - the show will last until dawn, so you have plenty of time to catch a glimpse.”

If you’re going out to watch the meteor shower, make sure you wrap up warm!

 
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