Taurid Meteor Showers Illuminate Night Sky This Week

Two meteor showers, known as the Southern and Northern Taurids, are dazzling the night sky right now, and are set to peak a week apart. The Southern Taurids will reach their zenith early Tuesday with a favorable viewing condition due to a slim crescent moon. The Northern Taurids, peaking on November 12, might be slightly obscured by a 79% full moon. Despite low meteor count—each generally produces five meteors that can be seen each hour—they often produce "brighter and longer-lasting meteors," according to Sally Brummel, planetarium manager at the University of Minnesota's Bell Museum.

Both showers originate from debris left by comet Encke, showcasing meteors that appear as fiery trails in the sky. Viewing opportunities will extend into December, with dark, cloudless skies offering the best sightings, especially in areas free from city lights and distractions. To enhance meteor visibility, enthusiasts are advised to observe between midnight and the early morning hours, when shooting stars are more prominent. It's beneficial to keep eyes away from screens for optimal night vision, so put your phone away. Shortly after the Taurids, sky watchers can look forward to the Leonids meteor shower, set to peak in the early hours of November 17. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)