Southern Taurid Meteor Shower Peaks Nov. 4-5 With Fireball Display

North Bradford, U.S. — Stargazers should mark their calendars for the overnight hours of November 4-5 as the Southern Taurid meteor shower reaches its peak. During this event, bright meteors from the comet 2P/Encke may light up the sky, creating a stunning visual display of shooting stars.

The Southern Taurids are known for producing spectacular fireballs due to larger remnants, which can illuminate the night with their brilliance. The shower occurs annually when Earth passes through debris left by the comet, with this year’s peak offering the chance to see up to 10 bright meteors per hour.

However, the near-full moon may wash out some of the fainter meteors. American Meteor Society expert Bill Cooke explains that while normal Taurid particles are about the size of gravel, this year’s event features larger fragments that can be as big as basketballs, leading to brighter fireballs.

Best viewing hours for the meteors are generally after midnight, when the radiant point, located in the constellation Taurus, rises high in the sky. Stargazers are advised to find a dark area away from city lights and allow their eyes to adjust to the darkness for at least 30 minutes.

Experts encourage not to focus solely on the Taurus constellation; meteors can appear in various areas of the sky. Warm clothing, a hot drink, and a comfortable spot to sit can enhance the stargazing experience.

Looking ahead, the next opportunity to see the Southern Taurid swarm will not arise until 2032, making this year’s peak particularly significant for enthusiasts.