Among the most fascinating and striking cosmic events that can be observed from Earth is the meteor shower. This phenomenon is a marvel to behold, bringing with it a captivating light show. Without a doubt, it is a unique experience worth witnessing at some point.
It may seem that they are events that occur in isolation and unpredictably. Likewise, it is common to think that, to see a meteor shower, you must have a stroke of luck. Although it is partly true, it is surprising to know that meteor showers are more common than they seem. In that sense, you just have to be prepared and know when they will arrive.
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All the details of a shower of stars, at your fingertips
In short, a meteor shower , also known as a meteor shower , is a stellar event of general interest. Beyond being a subject of ongoing study, it enjoys tremendous popularity among the masses. Therefore, you don't need to be an expert to be a lover of space and everything it encompasses.
Source: Google
Turning to the technical point of view, a meteor shower is generated from comets or meteors. Following the primary or cometary method, a series of important aspects must first be taken into account.
As comets orbit Earth or travel through the Solar System, they interact with various factors, including the solar wind and the energy released by their host star. When space weather impacts a comet's surface, it causes the release of cosmic particles.
These particles, commonly referred to as "meteor swarms," also follow the comet's orbit relative to a celestial body such as Earth. At a certain point, the swarm enters the atmosphere, burning due to the effect of contact and friction until it produces rain.
In the second case, depending on its size, a meteor or meteorite can produce a meteor shower. Even meteors as small as a vase can fragment upon entering the atmosphere, initiating the shower. However, its magnitude will not be comparable to the previous scenario.
If they are so common… So, when will the next meteor shower of 2020 be?
As mentioned, these events are more common than they appear to be. Therefore, to understand more clearly about them, you must first navigate through the types of meteor showers.
Each year, up to seven types of spectacular events take place , captivating audiences. Each one occurs during a specific time of year, so they can be observed at any moment, provided, of course, that the appropriate safety measures are in place.
The beautiful Quadrantids
In the space between January 1st and 5th, the beautiful rain of the Quadrantids occurs. That is, it was a 2020 meteor shower that arose within the first month of the year.
Specifically, it's an active, bright, and constant shower of light. It's easily visible from anywhere, as long as there's no light pollution. In fact, it's the simplest and easiest to locate.
April and the return of the Lyrids
After the Quadrantid meteor shower, you have to wait until April to see another one. Specifically, between April 16 and 26, one of the most intense meteor showers occurs. These are even known as the Lyrid Fireballs due to their enormous brightness. To learn more about them, check out our article on how to enjoy the 2024 Geminid meteor shower.
The constant sighting of the Perseids
The Perseids, named after the popular constellation Perseus, were one of the longest meteor showers of 2020. In fact, their period spanned from July 17th to August 24th. They are observed as typical shooting stars, not very bright, but moving at incredible speeds. If you're interested in shooting stars, we invite you to read more about what they are.
The mighty Draconids
Associated with the constellation Draco, the Draconids are a type of meteor shower that occurs in October. Specifically, they are visible from October 6th to 10th, peaking on the last two nights. Their brightness and luminosity are greater than those of the Perseids, making them visible even at dusk. If you'd like to learn more about this event, visit our article on the Draconids.
The Orionids and their long nocturnal presence
Originating from the constellation Orion , the Orionids are also highly active. One of the longest-lasting meteor showers, it generally runs from October 2nd to November 20th. To the naked eye, it's a fleeting, faint, but nonetheless captivating shower.
The colorful Leonidas
Best known for their intense reddish flash and green trail, the Leonids meteor shower appears. They occur from November 6th to November 30th, adorning the skies with their vibrant colors. If you'd like to learn more about this phenomenon, you can visit our article on the Perseids.
The enigmatic Geminids
From December 7th to December 17th, the Geminid meteor shower graces Earth. Originating near the constellation Gemini, it is a long-lasting, powerful, and highly active shower. It is responsible for adding a special touch to the night sky in December.
How is it possible to observe a meteor shower today? Learn the best trick!
Source: Google
The first step to seeing a meteor shower today is to know its exact date of approach. Also, as a tip, meteor showers are most visible in the early morning hours.
The reason is simple, at that time, they reach their highest point of entry to Earth. That is to say, their main contact with the atmosphere will be greater and longer lasting, so they will express more luminosity.
Next, another important step is to get away from the city, finding a spot where light pollution won't interfere. Then, knowing the location of some constellations, locate the one you're looking for. However, observing a meteor shower today is possible even without using a constellation as a guide, since they appear to shine across the entire sky.
