Leonid meteor shower: peak night and viewing tips for Bucks County
If you missed the Northern and Southern Taurids, Bucks County stargazers get another chance: the Leonid meteor shower is active in November and is expected to peak the night of Nov. 16 into the morning of Nov. 17, according to the American Meteor Society. The Moon will be a thin waning crescent (about 9% illuminated) on the peak night, so moonlight should not significantly wash out fainter meteors.
Local observers will have the best chance to see Leonids between midnight and dawn. The shower remains observable through the end of the month, weather permitting. The Leonids appear to radiate from the constellation Leo in the eastern sky, but individual meteors can appear anywhere overhead — so a wide, unobstructed view of the sky is ideal. Apps like SkyView or SkySafari Pro can help you identify Leo and other reference points.
Where the Leonids come from
The Leonids originate from debris shed by comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle. Occasionally this stream produces intense meteor storms; notable historical storms occurred in 1833, 1866, 1966, 1999, 2001 and 2002. The 1966 event is famous for producing at least 1,000 meteors per hour. In a typical Leonid peak under dark skies today, observers might expect roughly 10–15 meteors per hour, though brief outbursts are possible under special conditions.
Other showers around this season
Several other annual showers are active around late autumn and early winter. Typical windows include the Orionids (autumn), the Taurids (Southern and Northern in October–November), the Leonids (mid-November), and the Geminids and Ursids (December). The Geminids usually peak around Dec. 13–14 each year and are one of the richest winter showers. Showers that peak near the new moon are generally easier to view because there is less moonlight.
How to watch — practical tips
No telescope or binoculars are needed — in fact, optics can restrict your field of view. NASA recommends the following for the best experience:
- Choose a dark location away from street and building lights.
- Allow your eyes 20–30 minutes to adapt to the dark; avoid phone screens or other bright lights.
- Lie back on a blanket, sleeping bag or reclining chair so you can scan a wide portion of the sky.
- Dress warmly, bring insect repellent if needed, and check local weather and cloud cover before you go.
With clear skies and a dark site, Bucks County observers should have a favorable opportunity to catch the Leonids on the night of Nov. 16–17. Enjoy the show, and consider sharing any good photos or sightings with local astronomy clubs or the American Meteor Society.
Contributing reporting was credited in the original local article. This version corrects timing details and clarifies viewing advice while retaining the historical context and practical tips for Bucks County observers.
