This page is a periodic description of current events or topics that concern the Nightly Observing Program held at the Kitt Peak Visitor Center.

November

The Lion Roars One Last Time

On Monday the 18th and the early morning hours of Tuesday the 19th the Earth will get a little dirty. As we orbit the Sun, our planet occasionally passes through the debris of comets. Comets tend to have more substance to their name than being since they are generally not very dense. As comets orbit the Sun they leave small particles (generally termed "dust") in their wake. Some of these streams of dust intersect the Earth's orbit. Begining on the 18th we will pass through a particularly rich portion of a dust stream left behind by comet Temple-Tuttle.

When this dust collides with the Earth's upper atmosphere at velocities around 40 miles per second, anyone who cares to glance skyward will be treated to the resulting meteor shower. Even the smallest pieces of dust will create wonderful streaks in the sky. The brightest fireballs (called bolides) are generally produced by pebble sized meteoriods. Astronomers have learned much about this ,the Leonid, meteor shower and last year's predictions were unprecedented in precision. Although bright moonlight will hamper the view this time- you never know what will happen. Last year's show tipped the scales at several thousand meteors per hour under a dark sky (this is about 1 every few seconds).

Unfortunately, this may be the last time the Leonids will produce an active shower in our lifetime. So take this opportunity to show young people and the uninitiated the splendor of the universe. It is predicted that there may be a short burst of activity during the evening hours of the 18th at around 9pm. Do not expect to see many meteors at this time. Instead look for a few bright meteors that may streak across large stretches of sky. Sighting one of these grazing meteors will make up for the patience necessary to spot them. Later, in the early morning hours, the Earth will have turned so that Tucson more directly faces the meteor stream. Meteors will be shorter, faster, and more numerous. With the moon in the sky, seeing one or two every few minutes would be extraordinary. The peak is expected to be at around 3am in the morning and continuing until darkness yeilds to twilight.

Although the sky will already be bright because of the moon; getting away from the city lights will still be important. You do not need any special equipment to observe this event. Just remember to bring plenty of warm clothing. While the meteors will appear to originate from the east, specifically the constellation of Leo, you should look at the entire sky. Stretch out on a reclining chair or on the ground and gaze at the stars. A nice way to remember your evening is to sketch the bright stars (or buy/print a starchart) and record where and when you sight your meteors. You never know, this information could prove to be valuable! Good luck and clear skies.

For questions or future article suggestions please e-mail me at ablock@noao.edu

Adam Block
Kitt Peak Visitor Center
Lead Observer

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Updated: 11/02/2002