The Leonid meteor shower is under way and runs until 30 November, with its peak on the night of 17 November, when sky watchers may see 10 to 15 meteors an hour.
The streaks come from dust left behind by Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle. The particles hit the atmosphere at up to 71 kilometres per second, making the Leonids the fastest meteors in the sky.
No telescope or binoculars are needed. Find a dark, open place away from street lights, give your eyes 20 to 30 minutes to adjust, and look towards the constellation Leo, where the meteors appear to start. Clear skies are essential, so check the forecast and dress warmly.
This article was written in our own words, based on reporting by BBC Science & Environment. Read the original: BBC Science & Environment ↗
