Leonid meteor shower: Here's when, where, how to watch celestial event

Meteor shower can result in impressive fireballs producing long, bright, colourful streaks

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A burst of 1999 Leonid meteors as seen at 38,000 feet from Leonid Multi Instrument Aircraft Campaign (Leonid MAC) with 50 mm camera. — Reuters
A burst of 1999 Leonid meteors as seen at 38,000 feet from Leonid Multi Instrument Aircraft Campaign (Leonid MAC) with 50 mm camera. — Reuters

The earthlings are yet again going to witness the breathtaking celestial event known as Leonid meteor shower which will be active from November 3 to December 2 this year and peak overnight from November 16 to 17.

When Earth passes through the debris left behind by comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle the Leonids are produced. It happens during its highly elliptical orbit around the Sun every 33 years, reported Space.

It is worth noting that the Leonids are regarded as some of the fastest meteors, zipping through the sky at 44 miles (71 kilometres) per second, as per Nasa.

Moreover, they can also result in impressive fireballs producing long, bright and colourful meteor streaks.

On the date of Leonid's peak, the Moon will be almost fully illuminated. As a result, it will interfere with viewing opportunities and wash out fainter meteors.

If one wants to have the best experience of seeing the Leonids, they should go to the darkest possible location, lean back and relax.

Additionally, telescopes or binoculars are not needed as the secret to a good meteor viewing experience. However, it should be made sure that viewers allow their eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the dark.

According to the Royal Museums Greenwich, the best time to look for the Leonids is between midnight and dawn local time.