Stargazers across Charlotte will get a bright treat tonight as the Leonid meteor shower reaches its peak, sending quick bursts of light streaking across the sky. The annual display comes as Earth passes through debris left by comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle.
The Leonids run from Nov. 3 to Dec. 2, but tonight offers the best viewing, with up to 10 meteors per hour expected, according to the American Meteor Society. Some brighter fireballs may also flash overhead as larger fragments burn up in the atmosphere.
The ideal viewing window begins late tonight, when the constellation Leo rises high in the eastern sky, with Jupiter glowing to its upper right. Observers should look roughly 40 degrees above Leo—about the width of four fists held at arm’s length—for the longest meteor trails.
Experts advise dressing warmly and giving your eyes 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness. Using a red light helps preserve night vision while scanning the sky.
The Leonids have produced massive meteor storms in the past, but no major outburst is expected this year. Still, clear skies should give Charlotte-area residents a solid chance to enjoy one of fall’s best celestial shows.
To get the best shots, the best thing to use is a long-exposure camera. Go to a very dark place where you have an unobstructed view toward the northern sky. The best place would be a remote mountain with north-facing views.
You can find the dark spots in your area using the official light pollution map here.
