Astronomy Question: Meteor Showers?
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G.S asks:
Dear Astronomer, my friends and I keep talking about going out and catching a meteor shower but it’s hard to figure out when they are and what nights/times are the best viewing opportunities. Any suggestions?
Great Question! Meteor showers are the result of the Earth passing through the debris trail of comets, and as such, there are Meteor showers nearly every month. That being said, there are major meteor showers that happen a few times each year, on a regular basis.
We just passed the Geminids, but here’s a rough schedule for the major events:
Generally the best time to view is after midnight local time, but there are some variations in the “peak” time.
As far as making a social event out of it, check for a local Astronomy club in your area.
Many times Astronomy clubs will usually make a special event for the major Meteor Showers.
We’ll be updating the 2011 calendar of events in the coming weeks, so you can check here for precise dates for “peak” shower activity.
Ray Sanders is a Sci-Fi geek, astronomer and blogger. Currently researching variable stars at Arizona State University, he writes for Universe Today, The Planetary Society blog, and his own blog, Dear Astronomer
2012-12-04 08:05:21
Source: http://www.dearastronomer.com/2010/12/15/meteor-showers/
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