The November 17 meteor shower, linked to comet Tempel-Tuttle, delivers reliable winter sky activity with peak rates around 10 to 15 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. This guide outlines timing, viewing strategy, and how the shower relates to the Leonid meteor stream.
Unlike sporadic meteors, the November Leonid shower produces brighter trains and occasional fireballs, making it a compelling event for both casual observers and astrophotographers on dark sites.
Timing and Peak Activity
Annual Window and Zenith Hourly Rate
| Parameter | Value | Notes | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Dates | Nov 13–Dec 6 | Broad window with gradual rise and fall | IMO data |
| Peak Date | Nov 17–18 | ZHR typically 10–15 | Historical averages |
| Peak Time (UTC) | Approx. 10:00–15:00 | Convert to local time for planning | Astronomical almanacs |
| Moon Interference | Waning crescent in 2024 | Minimal light pollution from Moon | Lunar phase calendar |
Best Viewing Conditions
Location, Latitude, and Darkness
Choose a site with low horizon haze, minimal artificial lighting, and a clear view of the constellation Leo in the east before dawn. Northern observers at mid-latitudes see Leo climb highest after midnight, improving the radiant geometry.
Allow 20 to 30 minutes for eyes to adapt to darkness, and avoid bright screens. Red-filtered lighting preserves night vision, while a reclining chair or blanket reduces neck strain during long sessions.
Meteor Science and Origins
Comet Parent Body and Dust Streams
The November Leonid shower originates from dust shed by comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle. Earth intersects this debris trail annually, producing meteors that appear to radiate from the Sickle asterism in Leo.
Dust grains range from sand to pebble size and enter the atmosphere at about 71 kilometers per second, creating short, colorful trails that can persist for minutes in the upper atmosphere.
Photographing the November Leonids
Camera Settings and Tracking Tips
Use a full-frame or APS-C camera with a wide-angle lens, f/2.8 or faster, and ISO 1600–3200 for untracked shots. For longer exposures, use a star tracker or stack multiple short exposures to reduce noise while capturing meteor streaks.
Focus on infinity, frame Leo and the radiant, and shoot during the dark hours around peak. Review images on-site to confirm composition and exposure, and prioritize meteors with persistent trains for dramatic results.
Key Takeaways
- Peak occurs around November 17–18, with modest rates of 10–15 meteors per hour.
- Best viewing is in the early morning hours after Moonset and before dawn.
- A dark site, dark-adapted eyes, and a clear eastern horizon improve success.
- Photographers should use wide apertures, high ISO, and consider tracking for longer exposures.
- The shower is linked to comet Tempel-Tuttle, producing bright trains and occasional fireballs.
FAQ
Reader questions
Will the November 17 shower produce a storm or outburst in 2024?
No storms are predicted for 2024; rates are expected to remain near the normal Zenith Hourly Zone value of 10–15 under ideal conditions, with no enhanced activity anticipated.
Can I see the November Leonids from a city?
You may see a few brighter meteors from urban areas, but moonlight and skyglow reduce visibility. Traveling to a darker site or focusing on the post-midnight hours improves your chances.
Do fireballs from this shower pose any danger?
No, the meteoroids are typically tiny and burn up harmlessly in the upper atmosphere. Fireballs from the November Leonids are visually impressive but do not reach the ground as hazardous material.
What is the difference between the Leonids in November and the June Aquarids?
The November Leonids originate from comet Tempel-Tuttle and peak in mid-November, while the June Aquarids are a minor, southern-hemisphere-dominated shower with different radiant and parent body, producing far fewer meteors.