Last 4 meteor showers of 2024 and when to watch them in Ontario

Skywatchers mark your calendars!

The last four meteor showers of the year are set to light up the skies over Ontario this fall and winter. Here’s when and how to catch the best views:

Orionids Meteor Shower

The Orionid Meteor Shower is set to peak in October with prime viewing during the early hours of Oct. 20 and 21, according to EarthSky.org.

Although the shower lasts from Sept. 26 to Nov. 22, the best activity will occur on these peak dates.

However, a waning gibbous moon following the full moon on Oct. 17 may slightly obscure the display, but the Orionids’ brighter meteors should still be visible.

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Under optimal conditions, you could witness 10 to 20 meteors per hour, some leaving glowing trails or producing brilliant fireballs.

The meteors appear to originate from a point near the constellation Orion, close to the bright red star Betelgeuse, but they will streak across all parts of the sky, offering a stunning display no matter where you look.

The Orionids are created from debris left by Halley’s Comet, making this an annual event worth watching.

Leonids Meteor Shower

The Leonid Meteor Shower is set to peak on the morning of Nov.18, though visibility may be impacted by a bright, waning gibbous moon. Despite the moonlight, the Leonids are known for producing fast and bright meteors, and stargazers in Southern Ontario can still expect a rewarding display.

The best time to watch will be from late on Nov. 17 through dawn on Nov. 18.

The shower runs from November 3 to December 2, with the radiant point near the constellation Leo, which rises around midnight.

Under ideal dark sky conditions, viewers can expect to see 10 to 15 meteors per hour, although moonlight may reduce the count.

This annual event is caused by debris from Comet Tempel-Tuttle, known for producing some of history’s most spectacular meteor storms. While no storm is anticipated this year, the Leonids still offer a great opportunity for stargazing and witnessing bright, fast meteors.

Southern Taurid

The Southern Taurid Meteor Shower is expected to peak on the nights of Nov. 5 to 6, offering viewers in southern Ontario a chance to witness its bright fireballs. Known for producing fewer meteors per hour—around 5-10—but with larger and brighter fireballs, the Southern Taurids are visible from late evening until dawn. The best viewing time will be after midnight when the sky is darkest.

Space.com says the meteors are caused by debris from Comet 2P/Encke. While the shower is not as intense as others, its spectacular fireballs make it worth the wait.

Geminids Meteor Shower

The Geminids Meteor Shower is one of the strongest and most reliable annual meteor showers, producing up to 120 meteors per hour during its peak.

This year, the shower will happen between  Nov. 19 and Dec. 24, with its best viewing times on Dec. 13 and 14.

The Geminids are bright, fast meteors that often appear yellow in colour, making them relatively easy to spot even in less than ideal conditions.

However, according to earthandsky.org, a nearly full moon on Dec. 15 will brighten the sky, potentially competing with the meteors. Fortunately, many of the Geminid meteors are bright enough to still be visible.

To maximize your viewing experience, head to a dark sky area away from city lights. The meteors can be observed starting around 9 p.m. or 10 p.m., with the most spectacular displays occurring around 2 a.m. when the radiant is highest in the sky.

NASA recommends giving your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness and being patient as the shower lasts all night, offering plenty of chances to catch a shooting star.

If you are a first-time stargazer or an astronomy aficionado, here are some items to be prepared with as recommended by Space.com: 

Red flashlight — Fainter meteors require eyes to adjust to the dark, especially when you’re using a night-sky map. The red light will help preserve your night vision.

Warm clothing — It can get pretty chilly as you wait for the meteor showers. Grab a warm hat, coat, a scarf and a sleeping bag, if staying outdoors for a long period of time.

Hot drink — A hot beverage will help keep you warm. Tea and coffee are often the go to choice as it also helps you stay awake.

Deck chair —  Looking up for hours at a time could put a strain on your neck. It’s advised to use a deck chair that will keep you in an inclined position for maximum comfort.