The Last Supermoon of the Year Will Peak Alongside the Leonid Meteor Shower

What is a supermoon?

A supermoon is a new or full moon that occurs when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit. This makes the moon appear larger and brighter than usual. The last supermoon of the year will occur on November 26, 2023, and it will be a full moon.

What is the Leonid meteor shower?

The Leonid meteor shower is an annual meteor shower that occurs when Earth passes through the debris trail of the Tempel-Tuttle comet. The shower is named after the constellation Leo, which is the radiant point from which the meteors appear to originate. The Leonid meteor shower is known for producing bright and fast meteors.

When will the supermoon and Leonid meteor shower peak?

The last supermoon of the year and the Leonid meteor shower will both peak on the night of November 26, 2023. The best time to view the supermoon will be just after sunset, when it will be at its highest point in the sky. The best time to view the Leonid meteor shower will be after midnight, when the shower is expected to produce up to 15 meteors per hour.

Where can I view the supermoon and Leonid meteor shower?

The supermoon and Leonid meteor shower will be visible from anywhere on Earth with clear skies. The best viewing locations will be away from city lights, where there is less light pollution. You may want to bring a pair of binoculars or a telescope to enhance your viewing experience.

What should I expect to see?

During the supermoon, the moon will appear larger and brighter than usual. You may also see some craters and mountains on the moon's surface. During the Leonid meteor shower, you may see bright and fast meteors streaking across the sky. You may also see some persistent trains, which are trails of light that linger in the sky for a few seconds after the meteor has passed.

Conclusion

The last supermoon of the year and the Leonid meteor shower are both spectacular celestial events that are worth experiencing. If you have the opportunity, be sure to find a dark location with clear skies and enjoy the show!