November 2010

There is really not much to see this month. Comet Hartley 2, which has been cruising part Earth for an entire month and offering up a great show for sky watchers, is presenting the possibility of its own meteor shower. While authorities are saying it is not likely, some fireballs have been spotted, and their paths have been traced back to the comet. It could be coincidence, or it could actually be a newly discovered meteor shower. It is expected to peak November 3-4. It should be radiating from the constellation Cygnus, which should be directly overhead after sunset. Do not expect to see a brilliant shower, however.

Image credit: Spaceweather.com.

Last but not least, keep an eye out for the Leonids meteor shower, which is expected to peak November 17-18. The Leonids are caused by debris left by comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle. As the name indicates, the shower can be seen radiating from the constellation Leo. Light from the full moon this month will probably obstruct many of the meteors from being seen, though.

For more information or for tips on star gazing, call 229-432-6955.