Leonid Meteor Shower at peak: How to watch it in India

The Leonid meteor shower, one of the most iconic celestial events, is currently active. If you missed its peak on the nights of November 17-18, don’t worry; the shower should still retain some razzle dazzle over the next few days. For stargazers in India, this cosmic show promises a breathtaking experience if the skies remain clear and moonlight isn’t too bright.

What makes the Leonids special?

The Leonids are famous for their speed and brilliance, with meteors zipping through the atmosphere at an astonishing 70 km/s. They originate from debris left behind by Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, which orbits the Sun every 33 years. Occasionally, the shower transforms into a spectacular meteor storm, with thousands of meteors per hour. Though this phenomenon won’t occur this year, the Leonids remain a treat for skywatchers.

Best time and how to watch in India

To watch the showers, you have to stay up somewhat late into the night, as the radiant point in the constellation Leo becomes visible after midnight. Under ideal conditions, observers might spot around 10 meteors per hour, disappearing sometime after dawn breaks the next day. However, the waning gibbous moon may reduce visibility, so patience is key.

To view the shower effectively, find a dark spot away from city lights and allow your eyes to adjust to the dark for at least 30 minutes. Don’t focus directly on Leo (the radiant point), as meteors will streak across the entire sky. You can also use apps or star maps to locate Leo, marked by its bright star Regulus and a sickle-shaped pattern representing the lion’s mane.

Fun and practical tips for stargazing

Pack warm clothing, a reclining chair, and a thermos of hot tea to stay cozy while watching. No binoculars or telescopes are needed — just the naked eye and a sense of wonder. If you're a photography enthusiast, a DSLR with a wide-angle lens can help you capture the meteor trails.

The Leonids’ fiery streaks and occasional fireballs make them an unmissable celestial event. Even if the moonlight dims their intensity this year, the experience of lying under the stars and marveling at this cosmic spectacle is well worth it.

For the best results, keep checking local weather forecasts for clear skies and head out to dark rural areas if possible. Happy stargazing!