Are you someone who likes to keep your eyes trained towards the sky to catch a rare glimpse of shooting stars? Well, what if we tell you that there is a full astronomical show waiting for you this week in the UAE? It’s because it’s true! We are talking about the annual Leonid Meteor Shower, which will be illuminating the UAE night sky this November. Expected to reach its peak between November 17th and 18th, this basically means it starts tonight. So, you might want to keep your eyes trained up to the sky.
Leonid Meteor Shower To Illuminate Night Sky
As revealed by the Gulf News, which stated the Emirates Astronomical Society, the meteor shower is expected to occur between November 17th and 18th. This is among the world’s most famous yearly meter showers! The report mentioned how the meteor shower occurs when Earth passes through the debris trails of Comet Tempel–Tuttle. During the meteor shower, the comet of remnant enters the Earth’s atmosphere and burns brightly. As a result, it produces fast-moving metres often with long glowing tails.
More About The Annual Cosmic Event
Astronomical enthusiasts can observe them under the dark sky, and it typically last for 10 to 20 meteor showers per hour. The Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society and member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Science, Ibrahim Al Jarwan, mentions how the viewing conditions are particularly favourable this year. With minimal moonlight, there are chances for clear visibility for those who like to watch meteors.
Also Read: More Travellers In The Middle East Are Now Opting For Travel Insurance; Here’s Why!
Where To Observe?
It was also mentioned by him that every 33 years the comet returns on its regular orbit. As a result, Leonid can become a full meteor storm, which generates hundreds to even thousands of meteors per hour. The next return of the comet is expected in 2031. So, there might be heightened Leonid activity between 2031 and 2033. If all of this sounds perfect to you, you might want to move away from the city lights for the clearest view. These meteor showers are observed best in calm weather and on nights when there is little to no moon.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Nazarii Neshcherenskyi from Getty Images
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.