November’s Meteors
Unpredictable Brilliance: The Leonid Meteor Shower’s Mystique
The Upcoming Show: November 16th/17th, 2023
Prepare for a celestial spectacle as the Leonid Meteor Shower reaches its peak in the early hours of November 16th/17th. This meteor shower is known for its enigmatic and erratic behavior, leaving observers at the edge of their seats.
Historic Flares: The Leonid Meteor Shower’s Past Displays
The Leonid Meteor Shower boasts a rich history filled with captivating accounts. In 1933, it was likened to “a child’s sparkler against the sky,” showcasing its ethereal beauty. However, the most unforgettable display occurred in 1966 when it burst forth over the central western states in a meteor storm of epic proportions. Thousands of meteors streaked across the night sky, marking one of the most significant meteor events ever recorded.
But, the Leonids are anything but predictable. Some years, they fail to make their anticipated appearance, perplexing astronomers and stargazers alike.
Celestial Origins: The Connection to Comet Tempel-Tuttle
The Leonid Meteor Shower’s enigmatic behavior is intricately linked to the presence of Comet Tempel-Tuttle. This periodic comet, with an orbital period of approximately 33 years, was first spotted in 1865 by the relentless comet hunter, Horace P. Tuttle. His fervent quest for comets led to amusing notations in his logbook, including the famous plea, “NOTICE!! A comet is wanted immediately. Apply to H. P. Tuttle. P.S. He must have a Tail.” Tuttle’s telescope was even perched atop the Naval Observatory’s roof as he scoured the night sky for these celestial wanderers.
Comet Tempel-Tuttle leaves a trail of debris, comprising dust and small rocks, when it passes close to Earth. As our planet intersects this debris, the heavens ignite with an increased shower of meteors, producing the remarkable displays that we associate with the Leonids.
The Stellar Outburst of 1966 and the Anticipation of 1999
One of the most extraordinary Leonid events in the 20th century occurred in 1966. During this remarkable year, observers in the central western United States were treated to a meteor storm of epic proportions. Thousands of meteors streaked across the night sky in a display that etched itself into the annals of astronomy.
A significant year to mark on your calendars is 1999. This was a year when Comet Tempel-Tuttle once again neared Earth, creating excitement among astronomers and skywatchers. The anticipation was that this cosmic rendezvous would bring forth an intense meteor display, as the Leonids tend to become most spectacular when the comet is in close proximity.
The Legacy of a Comet Hunter: Horace P. Tuttle
Horace P. Tuttle’s passion for comet hunting has left an indelible mark on the world of astronomy. His logbook, filled with whimsical scribblings, serves as a treasure trove of his observations. His dedication extended even to the deck of an iron-clad ship during the Civil War. This lifelong bachelor frequently signed his name in the shape of small comets and now rests in an unmarked grave in Falls Church, Virginia.
The Leonid Meteor Shower continues to capture the imagination of amateur astronomers and stargazers alike. Its erratic charm and the promise of breathtaking meteor displays when cosmic conditions align make it an event eagerly anticipated by skywatchers across the world.