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Skywatchers, prepare yourselves!

The last three meteor showers of the year are expected to light up Ontario’s skies this fall and winter. Here’s when and how to capture the best views:

Leonid meteor shower

The Leonid meteor shower is expected to peak on the morning of November 18, although visibility may be affected by a bright, waning gibbous moon. Despite the moonlight, the Leonids are known for producing fast, bright meteors, and stargazers in southern Ontario can still expect a rewarding spectacle.

The best time to watch will be from late November 17 until dawn on November 18.

The shower will run from November 3 to December 2, with the radiant point near the constellation Leo, rising around midnight.

Under ideal dark sky conditions, viewers can expect to see 10 to 15 meteors per hour, although moonlight can reduce this number.

This annual event is caused by debris from Comet Tempel-Tuttle, known for producing some of the most spectacular meteor storms in history. Although no storms are expected this year, the Leonids still provide a great opportunity for stargazing and spotting bright, fast-moving meteors.

Southern Tauride

The Southern Taurids meteor shower is expected to peak on the nights of November 5-6, giving viewers in southern Ontario the opportunity to observe its brilliant fireballs. Known for producing fewer meteors per hour (around 5 to 10), but with larger, brighter fireballs, the Southern Taurids are visible from late evening until dawn. The best viewing time will be after midnight, when the sky is darkest.

Space.com claims the meteors are caused by debris from comet 2P/Encke. Even though the shower isn’t as intense as the others, its spectacular fireballs are worth the wait.

Geminid meteor shower

The Geminid meteor shower is one of the most powerful and reliable annual meteor showers, producing up to 120 meteors per hour during its peak.

This year, the shower will take place between November 19 and December 24, with its best viewing times on December 13 and 14.

Geminids are bright, fast-moving meteors that often appear yellow in color, making them relatively easy to spot even in less than ideal conditions.

However, according to earthandsky.org, a near-full moon on December 15 will brighten the sky, potentially rivaling meteors. Fortunately, many Geminid meteors are bright enough to still be visible.

To maximize your viewing experience, head to an area of ​​dark skies, away from city lights. Meteors can be seen from 9 p.m. or 10 p.m., with the most spectacular displays occurring around 2 a.m., when the radiant is highest in the sky.

NASA recommends giving your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the dark and being patient as the shower lasts all night, providing plenty of chances to catch a shooting star.

If you are a first-time stargazer or astronomy enthusiast, here are some things to prepare as recommended by Space.com:

Red flashlight — Weaker meteors require the eyes to adjust to the dark, especially when using a night sky map. The red light will help preserve your night vision.

Warm clothing — It can get quite cold while waiting for the meteor showers. Take a warm hat, coat, scarf and sleeping bag if you will be outside for a long time.

Hot drink — A hot drink will help you stay warm. Tea and coffee are often the preferred choices because they also help you stay awake.

Lounge chair — Standing for hours could put strain on your neck. It is advisable to use a lounge chair that will keep you in a reclined position for maximum comfort.

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