Title: Leonid Meteor Shower to Illuminate Guam’s Night Sky this Weekend
Guam, Date – The celestial phenomenon known as the Leonid meteor shower is poised to captivate star enthusiasts and sky-gazers across Guam. According to leading astronomy website EarthSky, the meteor shower will reach its peak on Saturday at 12:33 a.m. ET, offering a spectacular show of bright meteors streaking across the night sky with persistent trains.
During the peak period, eager viewers can expect to witness an estimated 10 to 15 meteors per hour, as the moon will be in its waxing crescent phase, minimizing light interference and enhancing the visibility of the meteors. Experts recommend venturing out into the darkness after midnight, as the constellation Leo, from which the Leonid meteor shower takes its name, will be at its highest point in the sky.
It’s worth noting that the Leonids have been known to produce meteor storms, characterized by at least 1,000 meteors per hour. In fact, this shower holds the record for the highest rate of meteors per hour seen in a meteor stream, with an astounding 144,000 meteors observed in just one hour back in 1966.
While a meteor storm is not expected this year, experts remain optimistic that viewers may still experience a higher number of meteors than predicted. The Leonid meteor shower occurs when the Earth intersects with the debris left behind by the Tempel-Tuttle comet, making it a much-anticipated celestial event.
Following this remarkable event, sky enthusiasts can mark their calendars for two additional meteor showers. The Geminids, set to peak on December 13-14, and the Ursids, expected to dazzle on December 21-22. These showers provide exciting opportunities to witness shooting stars and make wishes.
Furthermore, 2023 promises two final full moons to accentuate the beauty of Guam’s night sky. The Beaver moon will grace the heavens on November 27, followed by the Cold moon on December 26. These full moons offer a chance to admire the moon’s serene glow and appreciate its influence on Earth.
Even though the Leonid meteor shower might not be a meteor storm this year, residents and visitors of Guam are encouraged to keep their eyes focused upwards, as nature always has a way of surprising us. So, set your alarms, grab a cozy blanket, and prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting Leonid meteor shower this weekend.
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