Northern Taurid meteor shower reaches new heights, bringing fireballs to US night sky

The Northern Tauride meteor shower peaked on the night of November 11, providing skywatchers from across the United States with the opportunity to witness one of the most unique meteor displays of the year . This annual event is part of two overlapping meteor showers – the Southern and Northern Taurids – both originating from the debris trail of comet 2P/Encke. These meteors, which peak in November, can produce exceptionally bright fireballs, lighting up the night sky.

Taurid meteor showers cause bright fireballs

The Northern Taurids were active from October 13 to December 2, while the Southern Taurids began in late September and ended on November 12. Although these meteor showers typically produce about five meteors per hour, they are best known for their “Halloween fireballs” – extraordinarily bright meteors that can be visible over large areas of the sky. The relative rarity of meteors is offset by their brightness, providing viewers with a memorable visual experience, especially during the peak.

Optimal viewing under the night sky

Although the Moon is in its waxing gibbous phase, which can reduce the visibility of faint meteors, these fireballs should remain visible. The presence of the Moon, which approaches full phase on November 15, could make it difficult to detect smaller meteors; however, the brightest fireballs will still be visible. The Southern Taurids peaked earlier this month during a waxing crescent moon, making their display particularly striking in dark conditions.

Observing tips and origins of the Taurids

Originating from comet 2P/Encke, which orbits the sun every 3.25 years, the two showers are created by the remnants left by this short-period comet. The Northern and Southern Taurids appear to emanate from the constellation Taurus, which rises in the eastern sky each November. Observers are encouraged to give their eyes time to adjust to the darkness, as observing does not require any equipment such as binoculars or telescopes.

This annual meteor display provides a unique opportunity for amateur and seasoned astronomers to appreciate the brilliant fireballs lighting up the sky – an event best enjoyed without additional light interference.