Dazzling Asadid Meteor Showers Illuminate UAE Skies This November

The UAE's night sky will light up with the annual Leonid meteor shower throughout November, peaking between November 17-18. These fast-moving meteors create bright streaks with long tails as Earth passes through debris left by comet Tempel-Tuttle, offering stargazers up to 20 meteors per hour under dark conditions.

The Emirates Astronomical Society explains that the Leonids rank among the year's most famous meteor showers. They happen when our planet crosses the orbital path of comet Tempel-Tuttle, encountering the rocky fragments scattered along its route. What makes these meteors special is their incredible speed and the brilliant trails they leave behind.

Ibrahim Al-Jarwan, chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society and member of the Arab Union for Space and Astronomy Sciences, says this year's viewing conditions look promising. During peak nights, the moon will appear as a waning crescent, creating darker skies that make meteors easier to spot.

But here's where it gets really interesting. Every 33 years or so, when the comet swings closer during its regular orbit, the Leonids can produce meteor storms with hundreds or even thousands of meteors per hour. The comet last returned in 1998-1999, triggering intense meteor storms in 1999, 2001, and 2002. The next return comes in 2031, so we might see spectacular displays between 2031-2033.

For the best viewing experience this month, Al-Jarwan recommends watching after midnight until dawn, looking toward the Leo constellation in the eastern sky. The peak viewing window runs from 2 AM until sunrise, though meteors can appear anywhere across the sky.

Getting away from city lights makes a huge difference. Clear, dark locations work best, especially during nights when moonlight is minimal - typically the first three and last three nights of the lunar month. So if you're planning to catch this celestial show, find a dark spot away from urban glow and look east after midnight.