Meteor showers are astronomical phenomena that leave spectators in awe. And if you are also someone who loves chasing these shooting stars, then you are in for some brilliant news. After all, there are three meteor showers that will appear in the night sky of the UAE this November. As revealed by leading astronomer, Ibrahim Al Jarwan. He is the Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society and a member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences.
Meteor Showers To Be Visible In UAE Night Skies
As revealed in a Gulf News report that quoted Ibrahim Al Jarwan, multiple celestial events are lined up for the month of November. Yes, this includes meteor showers, a new moon, and the appearance of some of the brightest winter stars. The report quoted Al Khaleej, in which he explained how autumn offers favourable conditions for stargazing in the UAE. The best viewing experience, however, depends on choosing a dark location which offers a clear view of the horizon. Not to mention, a person should know when and where to look for these events.
When Can You See These Meteor Showers?
Talking about the meteor shower, the first one is the Southern Taurid meteor shower. It will reach its peak on November 4th and 5th, and it is the first major astronomical event in the month of November. The shower is famous for producing unusually bright meteors. They are sometimes called fireballs, which streak across the night sky and leave a visible trail.
Northern Taurid meteor shower is the next one that follows up on November 11th and 12th. It offers viewers an opportunity to spot meteors, which include occasional bright fireballs. The numbers will, however, vary. It would depend on observing conditions and the level of meteor activity.
The last one is the Leonid Meteor shower. It is expected to be on November 16th and 17th. The exceptional speed of the Leonid meteor shower, which travels at approximately 70 km/s can be viewed under ideal conditions. It has a theoretical rate of 15 m per hour. However, the number visible to observers might be lower.
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Other Astronomical Events Expected Throughout The Month
Besides the meteor shower, other astronomical events are also scheduled for the month. For instance, on November 9th, the moon will enter its new phase. As it leaves the night sky mostly free of moonlight, stars are going to be visible, as there will be conditions to observe them. Then on November 24th, the moon will reach its full phase, which will be completely illuminated from Earth. November full moon, which is traditionally known as the Beaver Moon in North America, is associated with seasonal traditions among early farming communities.
Several prominent winter stars will also begin to be visible in the month of November. Pleiades is the most recognisable one as an open cluster in the constellation Taurus. It appears to the naked eye as a small group of closely spaced stars. However, binoculars ended up revealing more of the individual stars. Aldebaran is another star, which is a bright orange star in Taurus, which will be identified by distinctive warm colours near the eye. Capella is another notable sight, a bright yellow star in the constellation Auriga.
With several celestial events happening during the month, people are truly in for a magical sight.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/davidhoffmannphotography from Getty Images (Cover image is for representative purposes only)
FAQs
What three meteor showers are visible in November?
In the UAE, three meteor showers will be visible in the night sky, which includes the Southern Taurid meteor shower, the Northern Taurid meteor shower, and the Leonid meteor shower.
What is Beaver Moon?
Beaver Moon is traditionally known in North America and is associated with regional traditions among farming communities. Basically, it's the November full moon.
