No matter where you live, the first half of December provides some of the best
meteor activity of the year. In the northern
hemisphere the sporadic rates are still strong plus you can also count on strong
activity from the Geminids, which peak on December
13. There are also several minor radiants that add a few meteors each hour. All
of these centers of activity are located high in the
sky during the early morning hours this time of year. Unfortunately this year
the bright moon spoils the show during the first week
of the month. During the second week of December the moon will pass its last
quarter phase and will not be such a nuisance .
As seen from the southern hemisphere the sporadic rates are increasing toward a
January maximum. Shower rates are also good but the
Geminids suffer a bit from the lower elevation seen from southern locations.
Still with the warmer weather now occurring south of
the equator, December is a great time to view celestial fireworks.
During this period the moon reaches its new phase on Wednesday December 16th. On
that date the moon lies near the sun and cannot be
seen at night. This weekend the waning crescent moon will rise during the late
morning hours but will not cause any interference.
The estimated total hourly rates for evening observers this week is near five as
seen from the northern hemisphere and three from
the southern hemisphere. For morning observers the estimated total hourly rates
should be near forty from the northern hemisphere
and twenty as seen from the southern hemisphere. The actual rates will also
depend on factors such as personal light and motion
perception, local weather conditions, alertness and experience in watching
meteor activity.
The radiant positions and rates listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning December 12/13. These positions do not
change greatly day to day so the listed coordinates may be used during this
entire period. Most star atlases (available at science
stores and planetariums) will provide maps with grid lines of the celestial
coordinates so that you may find out exactly where these
positions are located in the sky. A planisphere or computer planetarium program
is also useful in showing the sky at any time of
night on any date of the year. Activity from each radiant is best seen when it
is positioned highest in the sky, either due north or
south along the meridian, depending on your latitude. It must be remembered that
meteor activity is rarely seen at the radiant
position. Rather they shoot outwards from the radiant so it is best to center
your field of view so that the radiant lies at the
edge and not the center. Viewing there will allow you to easily trace the path
of each meteor back to the radiant (if it is a shower
member) or in another direction if it is a sporadic. Meteor activity is not seen
from radiants that are located below the horizon.
The positions below are listed in a west to east manner in order of right
ascension (celestial longitude). The positions listed
first are located further west therefore are accessible earlier in the night
while those listed further down the list rise later in
the night.
The following showers are expected to be active this week:
Now that the activity from particles produced by comet 2P/Encke has ceased
encountering the Earth, the Taurid showers for 2009 are
over and we resume reporting activity from the Antihelion radiant. This is not a
true radiant but rather activity caused by the
Earth's motion through space. As the Earth revolves around the sun it encounters
particles orbiting in a pro-grade motion that are
approaching their perihelion point. They all appear to be radiating from an area
near the opposition point of the sun, hence the
name Antihelion. These were once recorded as separate showers throughout the
year but it is now suggested to bin them into their
category separate from true showers and sporadics. This radiant is a very large
oval some thirty degrees wide by fifteen degrees
high. Activity from this radiant can appear from more than one constellation.
The position listed here is for the center of the
radiant which is currently located at 06:16 (094) +23. This position lies in
western Gemini near the fourth magnitude star Eta
Geminorum. Antihelion activity may also appear from eastern Taurus, northeastern
Orion, or southern Auriga. This radiant is best
placed near 0100 local standard time (LST) when it lies on the meridian and is
highest in the sky. Rates at this time should be near
three per hour as seen from the northern hemisphere and two per hour from south
of the equator. With an entry velocity of 30
km/sec., the average Antihelion meteor would be of slow speed.
The Monocerotids (MON) are active from a radiant located at 06:52 (103) +07.
This position lies in northwestern Monoceros halfway
between the bright stars Betelgeuse (Alpha Orionis) and Procyon (Alpha Canis
Minoris). This shower peaked on December 8, so activity
is waning. Current rates would most likely average less than one per hour no
matter your location. The Monocerotids are best seen
near 0100 LST when the radiant lies highest above the horizon. At 41 km/sec. the
Monocerotids produce mostly meteors of medium
velocity.
The Geminids (GEM) are active from a radiant located at 07:33 (113) +32. This
position lies in northern Gemini near the fourth
magnitude star Rho Geminorum. Although Geminid meteors can be seen all night
long, they are best seen near 0200 LST when the radiant
lies highest above the horizon. This shower is expected to peak Sunday and
Monday December 13/14 when rates can surpass 60 shower
members per hour as seen from dark sites. Geminid activity can be seen from the
southern hemisphere but at at much reduced rate. As
seen from south of the equator, Geminid activity could only be seen for a few
hours before and after 0200 LST. At 35 km/sec. the
Geminids produce mostly meteors of medium velocity.
The Puppid-Velids (PUP) are a vast complex of weak radiants located in the
constellations of Puppis and Vela. Visual plots and
photographic studies have revealed many radiants in this area during November
and December. The combined strength of these radiants
can produce a ZHR of ten. Actual hourly rates will be much less unless you
happen to be observing from the deep Southern Hemisphere.
The center of this activity is currently located at 08:26 (126) -45. This
position lies in western Vela, five degrees northeast of
the second magnitude star Gamma Velorum. Peak rates occurred near December 7 so
current activity is waning. These meteors are best
seen near 0300 LST when the radiant lies highest above the horizon. Observers
located in the Southern Hemisphere have an advantage
viewing this shower as the radiant will rise higher into their sky allowing more
activity to be seen. At 40 km/sec. the
Puppid-Velids produce meteors of medium velocity.
The Sigma Hydrids (HYD) are active from a radiant located at 08:42 (130) +01.
This position lies in western Hydra, just below the
group of fourth magnitude stars that make up the "head" of the water serpent.
These meteors are best seen near 0300 LST when the
radiant lies highest above the horizon. Current rates would be near one per hour
no matter your location. At 61 km/sec. the Sigma
Hydrids produce mostly swift meteors.
The December Leonis Minorids (DLM) are active from a radiant located at 10:22
(155) +34. This position lies in central Leo Minor,
approximately ten degrees north of the third magnitude star Zeta Leonis. These
meteors are best seen near 0500 LST when the radiant
lies highest above the horizon. This shower peaks on December 20th so current
rates would be near one per hour as seen from the
northern hemisphere and less than one per hour as seen from south of the
equator. At 64 km/sec. the December Leonis Minorids produce
mostly swift meteors.
Activity from the Coma Berenicids (COM) has just begun for 2009. The radiant is
located at 11:30 (173) +18. This position actually
lies in eastern Leo, five degrees northwest of the second magnitude star
Denebola (Beta Leonis). These meteors are best seen near
0600 LST when the radiant lies highest above the horizon. This shower peaks on
December 16th so current rates would be near one per
hour no matter your location. At 65 km/sec. the Coma Berenicids produce mostly
swift meteors.
Lastly, the December Alpha Draconids (DAD) are active from a radiant located at
14:00 (210) +58. This position actually lies in
northeastern Ursa Major, six degrees northeast of the second magnitude double
star Mizar (Zeta Ursae Majoris). These meteors are
best seen during the last dark hour before dawn, when the radiant lies highest
above the horizon in a dark sky. This shower is near
the end of its activity period so expected rates would be less than one no
matter your location. At 44 km/sec. the Alpha Draconids
produce mostly medium speed meteors.
As seen from the mid-northern hemisphere (45N) one would expect to see
approximately sixteen Sporadic meteors per hour during the
last hour before dawn as seen from rural observing sites. Evening rates would be
near three per hour. As seen from the mid-southern
hemisphere (45S), morning rates would be near ten per hour as seen from rural
observing sites and two per hour during the evening
hours. Locations between these two extremes would see activity between the
listed figures.
The table below presents a condensed version of the expected activity this week.
Rates and positions are exact for Saturday
night/Sunday morning but may be used all week long.
Antihelion (ANT)) - 06:16 (094) +23 Velocity - 30km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 3 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 2 per hr.
Monocerotids (MON) - 06:52 (103) +07 Velocity - 41km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Geminids (GEM) - 07:33 (113) +32 Velocity - 35km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 60 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 20 per hr.
Puppid-Velids (PUP) - 08:26 (126) -45 Velocity - 40km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 2 per hr.
Sigma Hydrids (HYD) - 08:42 (130) +01 Velocity - 61km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 1 per hr.
December Leonis Minorids (DLE) - 10:22 (155) +34 Velocity - 64km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Coma Berenicids (COM)) - 11:30 (173) +18 Velocity - 65km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 1 per hr.
Alpha Draconids (DAD) - 14:00 (210) +58 Velocity - 44km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
International Meteor Organization
No matter where you live, the first half of December provides some of the best
meteor activity of the year. In the northern
hemisphere the sporadic rates are still strong plus you can also count on strong
activity from the Geminids, which peak on December
13. There are also several minor radiants that add a few meteors each hour. All
of these centers of activity are located high in the
sky during the early morning hours this time of year. Unfortunately this year
the bright moon spoils the show during the first week
of the month. During the second week of December the moon will pass its last
quarter phase and will not be such a nuisance .
As seen from the southern hemisphere the sporadic rates are increasing toward a
January maximum. Shower rates are also good but the
Geminids suffer a bit from the lower elevation seen from southern locations.
Still with the warmer weather now occurring south of
the equator, December is a great time to view celestial fireworks.
During this period the moon reaches its last quarter phase on Wednesday December
9th. On that date the moon lies ninety degrees west
of the sun and rises near midnight local standard time (LST). This weekend the
waning gibbous moon will rise during the evening
hours and remain in the sky the remainder of the night. The bright glare from
the gibbous moon will make it difficult to view any
meteor activity. Once the moon passes its last quarter phase the moonlight
becomes less of a problem. The estimated total hourly
rates for evening observers this week is near three as seen from the northern
hemisphere and two from the southern hemisphere. For
morning observers the estimated total hourly rates should be near ten from the
northern hemisphere and seven as seen from the
southern hemisphere. The actual rates will also depend on factors such as
personal light and motion perception, local weather
conditions, alertness and experience in watching meteor activity. Morning rates
are reduced during this period due to moonlight.
The radiant positions and rates listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning December 5/6. These positions do not change
greatly day to day so the listed coordinates may be used during this entire
period. Most star atlases (available at science stores
and planetariums) will provide maps with grid lines of the celestial coordinates
so that you may find out exactly where these
positions are located in the sky. A planisphere or computer planetarium program
is also useful in showing the sky at any time of
night on any date of the year. Activity from each radiant is best seen when it
is positioned highest in the sky, either due north or
south along the meridian, depending on your latitude. It must be remembered that
meteor activity is rarely seen at the radiant
position. Rather they shoot outwards from the radiant so it is best to center
your field of view so that the radiant lies at the
edge and not the center. Viewing there will allow you to easily trace the path
of each meteor back to the radiant (if it is a shower
member) or in another direction if it is a sporadic. Meteor activity is not seen
from radiants that are located below the horizon.
The positions below are listed in a west to east manner in order of right
ascension (celestial longitude). The positions listed
first are located further west therefore are accessible earlier in the night
while those listed further down the list rise later in
the night.
The full descriptions of each active meteor shower will continue next week when
the moon becomes less of a nuisance to observers.
The table below presents a condensed version of the expected activity this week.
Rates and positions are exact for Saturday
night/Sunday morning but may be used all week long.
Phoenicids (PHO) - 01:12 (018) -53 Velocity - 18km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere -<1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Northern Taurids (NTA) - 05:16 (079) +26 Velocity - 29km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 2 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 1 per hr.
Monocerotids (MON) - 06:32 (098) +08 Velocity - 41km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Geminids (GEM) - 07:10 (107) +33 Velocity - 35km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 2 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Puppid-Velids (PUP) - 08:10 (122) -45 Velocity - 40km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Sigma Hydrids (HYD) - 08:16 (124) +03 Velocity - 61km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Psi Ursa Majorids (PSU) - 11:19 (170) +43 Velocity - 61km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Alpha Draconids (DAD) - 13:34 (204) +60 Velocity - 44km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
International Meteor Organization
No matter where you live, the first half of December provides some of the best
meteor activity of the year. In the northern
hemisphere the sporadic rates are still strong plus you can also count on strong
activity from the Geminids, which peak on December
13. There are also several minor radiants that add a few meteors each hour. All
of these centers of activity are located high in the
sky during the early morning hours this time of year. Unfortunately this year
the bright moon spoils the show during the first week
of the month. During the second week of December the moon will pass its last
quarter phase and will not be such a nuisance .
As seen from the southern hemisphere the sporadic rates are increasing toward a
January maximum. Shower rates are also good but the
Geminids suffer a bit from the lower elevation seen from southern locations.
Still with the warmer weather now occurring south of
the equator, December is a great time to view celestial fireworks.
During this period the moon reaches its full phase on Wednesday December 2nd. On
that date the moon lies opposite the sun and rises
near sunset and sets near sunrise. This weekend the waxing gibbous moon will set
a few hours before dawn, allowing a brief chance at
observing under pristine conditions before morning twilight. The estimated total
hourly rates for evening observers this week is
near three as seen from the northern hemisphere and two from the southern
hemisphere. For morning observers the estimated total
hourly rates should be near fifteen from the northern hemisphere and twelve as
seen from the southern hemisphere. The actual rates
will also depend on factors such as personal light and motion perception, local
weather conditions, alertness and experience in
watching meteor activity. Rates are reduced during this period due to moonlight.
The radiant positions and rates listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning November 28/29. These positions do not
change greatly day to day so the listed coordinates may be used during this
entire period. Most star atlases (available at science
stores and planetariums) will provide maps with grid lines of the celestial
coordinates so that you may find out exactly where these
positions are located in the sky. A planisphere or computer planetarium program
is also useful in showing the sky at any time of
night on any date of the year. Activity from each radiant is best seen when it
is positioned highest in the sky, either due north or
south along the meridian, depending on your latitude. It must be remembered that
meteor activity is rarely seen at the radiant
position. Rather they shoot outwards from the radiant so it is best to center
your field of view so that the radiant lies at the
edge and not the center. Viewing there will allow you to easily trace the path
of each meteor back to the radiant (if it is a shower
member) or in another direction if it is a sporadic. Meteor activity is not seen
from radiants that are located below the horizon.
The positions below are listed in a west to east manner in order of right
ascension (celestial longitude). The positions listed
first are located further west therefore are accessible earlier in the night
while those listed further down the list rise later in
the night.
The following showers are expected to be active this week:
The Phoenicids (PHO) are a periodic shower that rarely produces noticeable
activity. The only impressive display produced by this
shower occurred in 1956 when ZHR's were near 100. Peak activity occurs on
December 6. Little activity is expected away from the peak
night. The radiant is currently located at 00:48 (012) -52. This position lies
in southeastern Phoenix some five degrees northwest
of the bright zero magnitude star Achernar (Alpha Eridani). These meteors are
best seen near 2000 (8pm) local standard time (LST,
regardless of time zone) when the radiant lies highest above the horizon in a
dark sky. Due to the southerly declination of the
radiant, this shower is not visible north of the northern tropical areas. The
deep southern hemisphere has the best chance of seeing
any activity. At 18 km/sec. the Phoenicids produce very slow meteors.
Sirko Molau's studies of video radiants has revealed that activity from the
famous Andromedid (AND) shower, noted for intense storms
during the 19th century, may still be seen throughout November. The current
position of the large radiant is 01:44 (026) +45. This
position lies in northeastern Andromeda, five degrees northwest of second
magnitude Almach (Gamma Andromedae). Visual activity is
expected to be low, but detectable. The Andromedid radiant is best placed near
2100 (9pm) local standard time (LST) when it lies on
the meridian and overhead for observers viewing from mid-northern latitudes . At
19km/sec., the average Andromedid will appear as a
very slow moving meteor. Sirko mentions that these meteors are "conspicuously
slow and of almost constant activity" during this
period.
The Northern Taurids (NTA) are active from a large radiant centered at 04:52
(073) +25, which lies in eastern Taurus, eight degrees
northeast of the orange first magnitude star Aldebaran (Alpha Tauri). The
radiant is best placed near 0000 (midnight) LST, when it
lies highest above the horizon, but activity may be seen all night long. Meteors
from the Northern Taurids strike the atmosphere at
29km/sec., which would produce meteors of slow velocity. Expected rates would be
near two per hour as seen from the northern
hemisphere and one per hour as seen south of the equator.
The November Orionids (NOO) were recently discovered Sirko Molau by analyzing
video data. This shower is active from November 12
through December 6. Maximum activity occurs on November 30 when rates should be
near one per hour, no matter your observing
location. The radiant is currently located at 06:04 (091) +15. This position
lies in northeastern Orion, just west of the fourth
magnitude star Nu Orionis. These meteors are best seen near 0130 LST when the
radiant lies on the meridian and highest above the
horizon. At 44 km/sec. the November Orionids produce mostly medium velocity
meteors.
The Sigma Hydrids (HYD) are active from a radiant located at 07:52 (118) +04.
This position lies in eastern Canis Minor, three
degrees southeast of the zero magnitude star Procyon (Alpha Canis Minoris).
These meteors are best seen near 0300 LST when the
radiant lies highest above the horizon in a dark sky. Current rates would be
less than one per hour no matter your location. At 61
km/sec. the Sigma Hydrids produce mostly swift meteors.
The Puppid-Velids (PUP) are a vast complex of weak radiants located in the
constellations of Puppis and Vela. Visual plots and
photographic studies have revealed many radiants in this area during November
and December. The combined strength of these radiants
can produce a ZHR of ten. Actual hourly rates will be much less unless you
happen to be observing from the deep Southern Hemisphere.
The center of this activity is currently located at 07:52 (118) -45. This
position lies in eastern Puppis, four degrees northwest of
the second magnitude star Gamma Velorum. Peak rates occur near December 7. These
meteors are best seen near 0300 LST when the
radiant lies highest above the horizon in a dark sky. Observers located in the
Southern Hemisphere have an advantage viewing this
shower as the radiant will rise higher into their sky allowing more activity to
be seen. At 40 km/sec. the Puppid-Velids produce
meteors of average velocity.
The Leonids (LEO) reached maximum activity on the morning of November 17th with
ZHR's exceeding 100 as seen over Asia. The last
chance to see Leonid activity in 2009 is this weekend when the radiant lies at
10:44 (161) +14. This position lies in central Leo,
seven degrees southeast of the famous second magnitude double star Algeiba
(Gamma Leonis). Current rates would be less than one per
hour no matter your location. At 70km/sec., the average Leonid is swift with a
high percentage of trains. The radiant is most
favorably located during the last dark hour before the onset of morning twilight
when it lies highest in a dark sky.
Some observers have been reporting activity from Ursa Major while viewing the
Geminids. Video studies by Sirko Molau have revealed a
radiant active in this constellation from November 29th through December 13th.
Peak rates occur near December 5th. The radiant of
the Psi Ursa Majorids (PSU) is currently located at 10:36 (159) +45. This
position actually lies in Leo Minor, very close to the
position occupied by the third magnitude star Beta Leonis Minoris. These meteors
are best seen during the last hour before dawn when
the radiant lies highest in a dark sky. Current rates would be less than one per
hour no matter your location. Due to the high
northern declination these meteors are best seen from the northern hemisphere.
They are completely invisible south of 45 degrees
south latitude. At 61 km/sec. the Psi Ursa Majorids produce mostly swift
meteors.
As seen from the mid-northern hemisphere (45N) one would expect to see
approximately twelve Sporadic meteors per hour during the
last hour before dawn as seen from rural observing sites. Evening rates would be
near two per hour. As seen from the mid-southern
hemisphere (45S), morning rates would be near six per hour as seen from rural
observing sites and one per hour during the evening
hours. Locations between these two extremes would see activity between the
listed figures. Rates are reduced during this period due
to the intense moonlight.
The table below presents a condensed version of the expected activity this week.
Rates and positions are exact for Saturday
night/Sunday morning but may be used all week long.
Phoenicids (PHO) - 00:48 (012) -52 Velocity - 18km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere -<1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Andromedids (AND) - 01:44 (026) +45 Velocity - 19km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere -<1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Northern Taurids (NTA) - 04:52 (073) +25 Velocity - 29km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 2 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 1 per hr.
November Orionids (NOO) - 06:04 (091) +15 Velocity - 44km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 1 per hr.
Sigma Hydrids (HYD) - 07:52 (118) +04 Velocity - 61km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Puppid-Velids (PUP) - 07:52 (118) -45 Velocity - 40km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Psi Ursa Majorids (PSU) - 10:36 (159) +45 Velocity - 61km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Leonids (LEO) - 10:44 (161) +14 Velocity - 70km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
International Meteor Organization
Dear meteor friends,
With the International Meteor Conference 2010 being held in N. Ireland, we
realize that many participants will have to come by plane instead of car. To
allow people to book flights early, we have done a special effort to make
all travel information available early. Please check:
http://www.imo.net/imc2010/getting.php
In general, prices will increase the longer you wait to book. To give an
example, I checked today's prices for a single flight on Thursday 16
September 2010 from a few European cities: (prices include all taxes, but no
luggage)
- With Easyjet: London-Belfast: 25 euro, Paris-Belfast: 28 euro,
Amsterdam-Belfast: 33 euro, Barcelona-Belfast: 39 euro, Krakow-Belfast: 43
euro.
- With Aer lingus: Dusseldorf-Dublin: 35 euro, Prague-Dublin: 46 euro,
Berlin-Dublin: 48 euro, Budapest-Dublin: 56 euro.
This is not a complete list. To find flights from your location, please try
websites such as " http://www.skyscanner.net ". If you cannot find a cheap
flight from your location, then consider to travel via London or any other
tourist airport. Also note that you can mix flights from different companies
(low-cost airlines do not offer a discount for return tickets anyway!)
For participants from North America; return flights to London seem to be
available for less than 500 euro ! If anyone knows more about cheap flights
across the Atlantic, please do let us know. Given the "western" location of
the next IMC, we do hope to welcome as many participants from across the
pond as possible -- do let us know if we can do anything to facilitate your
travel !
Good luck booking your travel! :-)
Geert
imc2010@...http://www.imo.net/imc2010
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Hello all,
This mail is sent 00:45UT on 21st.
---------------
The Latest Information of Leonids 2009
(Final announcement)
The peak of Leonids 2009 was over around 21:30 on 17th(UT).
http://www.amro-net.jp/meteor-results/11_leo/2009leo.html
And many long echoes were also observed.
I researched the relationship between Activity Level Index
and visual ZHR. (Activity Level is the index of meteor activity)
Using this relationship, the max ZHR 127+-28 is estimated.
In the evening on 18th(UT), the high activity level was observed
again. If you have information about this activity, please tell me.
(I want to know the result of visual observation)
Although the activity was unstable in the evening on 19th(UT),
it seems that this activity was not unusual because error bars
were too large.
I really appriciate world radio meteor observers !!
with best wishes
Hiroshi Ogawa
----------------------------------
Hiroshi Ogawa (The Nippon Meteor Society)
mailto: h-ogawa@...
homepage: http://www.amro-net.jp/
As seen from the northern hemisphere, meteor rates continue to be strong in
November. While no major showers are active this month,
the two Taurid radiants plus the Leonids keep the skies active. The addition of
strong sporadic rates make November one of the
better months to view meteor activity from north of the equator. Skies are
fairly quiet as seen from the southern hemisphere this
month. Activity from the three showers mentioned above may be seen from south of
the equator, but the sporadic rates are much lower
than those seen in the northern hemisphere.
During this period the moon reaches its first quarter phase on Tuesday November
24th. On that date the moon lies ninety degrees east
of the sun and will set near midnight local standard time (LST). This weekend
the waxing crescent moon will set long before the more
active morning hours arrive, allowing dark skies for those who venture out
during the morning hours. As the week progresses the moon
sets later each night narrowing the window of opportunity to view under dark
conditions. The estimated total hourly rates for
evening observers this week is near four as seen from the northern hemisphere
and three from the southern hemisphere. For morning
observers the estimated total hourly rates should be near twenty from the
northern hemisphere and ten as seen from the southern
hemisphere. The actual rates will also depend on factors such as personal light
and motion perception, local weather conditions,
alertness and experience in watching meteor activity. Rates are reduced during
the evening hours due to moonlight.
The radiant positions and rates listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning November 21/22. These positions do not
change greatly day to day so the listed coordinates may be used during this
entire period. Most star atlases (available at science
stores and planetariums) will provide maps with grid lines of the celestial
coordinates so that you may find out exactly where these
positions are located in the sky. A planisphere or computer planetarium program
is also useful in showing the sky at any time of
night on any date of the year. Activity from each radiant is best seen when it
is positioned highest in the sky, either due north or
south along the meridian, depending on your latitude. It must be remembered that
meteor activity is rarely seen at the radiant
position. Rather they shoot outwards from the radiant so it is best to center
your field of view so that the radiant lies at the
edge and not the center. Viewing there will allow you to easily trace the path
of each meteor back to the radiant (if it is a shower
member) or in another direction if it is a sporadic. Meteor activity is not seen
from radiants that are located below the horizon.
The positions below are listed in a west to east manner in order of right
ascension (celestial longitude). The positions listed
first are located further west therefore are accessible earlier in the night
while those listed further down the list rise later in
the night.
The following showers are expected to be active this week:
Sirko Molau's studies of video radiants has revealed that activity from the
famous Andromedid (AND) shower, noted for intense storms
during the 19th century, may still be seen throughout November. The current
position of the large radiant is 01:38 (025) +39. This
position lies in eastern Andromeda, two degrees south of the fourth magnitude
star Nu Andromedae. The nearest bright star is second
magnitude Almach (Gamma Andromedae), which lies four degrees to the northeast.
Visual activity is expected to be low, but
detectable. The Andromedid radiant is best placed near 2200 (10pm) local
standard time (LST) when it lies on the meridian and
overhead for observers viewing from mid-northern latitudes . At 19km/sec., the
average Andromedid will appear as a very slow moving
meteor. Sirko mentions that these meteors are "conspicuously slow and of almost
constant activity" during this period.
The Northern Taurids (NTA) are active from a large radiant centered at 04:29
(067) +24, which lies in northern Taurus, eight degrees
north of the orange first magnitude star Aldebaran (Alpha Tauri). The radiant is
best placed near 0100 LST, when it lies highest
above the horizon, but activity may be seen all night long. Meteors from the
Northern Taurids strike the atmosphere at 29km/sec.,
which would produce meteors of slow velocity. Expected rates would be near three
per hour as seen from the northern hemisphere and
two per hour as seen south of the equator.
The November Orionids (NOO) were recently discovered Sirko Molau by analyzing
video data. This shower is active from November 12
through December 6. Maximum activity occurs on November 30. The radiant is
currently located at 05:44 (086) +15. This position lies
on the Orion/Taurus border, seven degrees north of the orange first magnitude
star Betelgeuse (Alpha Orionis). These meteors are
best seen near 0300 LST when the radiant lies on the meridian and highest above
the horizon. At 44 km/sec. the November Orionids
produce mostly medium velocity meteors.
The Alpha Monocerotids (AMO) are active from November 15-25, with maximum
occurring on the 21st. This shower has produced outbursts
in the past but none are expected for many years to come. Rates are expected to
be less than one shower member per hour, even on the
night of maximum activity. The radiant is currently located at 07:52 (118) +01.
This position lies in southeastern Canis Minor, five
degrees southeast of the zero magnitude star Procyon (Alpha Canis Minoris).
These meteors are also best seen near 0500 LST when the
radiant lies highest above the horizon in a dark sky. At 65 km/sec. the Alpha
Monocerotids produce mostly swift meteors.
The Leonids (LEO) reached maximum activity on the morning of November 17th with
ZHR's exceeding 100 as seen over Asia. Current rates
would be near one per hour no matter your location. The radiant is currently
located at 10:27 (157) +20. This position lies in
western Leo, just one degree northeast of the famous second magnitude double
star Algeiba (Gamma Leonis). At 70km/sec., the average
Leonid is swift with a high percentage of trains. The radiant does not rise
until the late evening hours so it is advised to wait
until after midnight before beginning serious observations. The radiant is most
favorably located during the last dark hour before
the onset of morning twilight when it lies highest in a dark sky.
As seen from the mid-northern hemisphere (45N) one would expect to see
approximately sixteen Sporadic meteors per hour during the
last hour before dawn as seen from rural observing sites. Evening rates would be
near three per hour. As seen from the mid-southern
hemisphere (45S), morning rates would be near six per hour as seen from rural
observing sites and two per hour during the evening
hours. Locations between these two extremes would see activity between the
listed figures. Evening rates are reduced due to
moonlight.
The table below presents a condensed version of the expected activity this week.
Rates and positions are exact for Saturday
night/Sunday morning but may be used all week long.
Andromedids (AND) - 01:38 (025) +39 Velocity - 19km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere -<1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Northern Taurids (NTA) - 04:29 (067) +24 Velocity - 29km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 3 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 2 per hr.
November Orionids (NOO) - 05:44 (086) +15 Velocity - 44km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Alpha Monocerotids (AMO) - 07:52 (118) +01 Velocity - 65km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Leonids (LEO) - 10:27 (157) +20 Velocity - 70km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 1 per hr.
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
International Meteor Organization
Hello all,
This mail is sent 12:30UT 18th.
---------------
The Latest Information of Leonids 2009
The peak of Leonids 2009 was over around 23h 17th(UT).
http://www.amro-net.jp/meteor-results/11_leo/2009leo.html
And many long echoes were also observed.
I researched the relationship between Activity Level Index
and visual ZHR. (Activity Level is the index of meteor activity)
Using this relationship, the max ZHR 132+-21 is estimated.
I really appriciate word radio meteor observers !!
with best wishes
Hiroshi Ogawa
----------------------------------
Hiroshi Ogawa (The Nippon Meteor Society)
mailto: h-ogawa@...
homepage: http://www.amro-net.jp/
Hello all,
My previous mail was delivered too late...
This mail is sent 12:30UT 17th.
---------------
The Latest Information of Leonids 2009
Some observers caught the small sub-peak around 23h 16th(UT).
http://www.amro-net.jp/meteor-results/11_leo/2009leo.html
It was so clear. (mainly Japan and Europe)
This activity went back to usual activity after few hours.
I do not know this activity profile. If you noticed this
near activity. Please tell me your detail result.
After several hours, the predicted peak is going to come
to Japan ! I am going to announce the latest activity.
And you can see the latest information on the web.
with best wishes
Hiroshi Ogawa
----------------------------------
Hiroshi Ogawa (The Nippon Meteor Society)
mailto: h-ogawa@...
homepage: http://www.amro-net.jp/
Hello all,
The latest information of Leonids 2009 was updated. From worldwide data,
Leonid unusual activity has not been observed yet.
http://www.amro-net.jp/meteor-results/11_leo/2009leo.html
Although the number of total echoes has not increased cleary, long echos
is increasing from Live FFT-image in Japan.
I am going to update the latest information of Leonids after that.
I hope this information is useful for everyone.
with best wishes
Hiroshi Ogawa
As seen from the northern hemisphere, meteor rates continue to be strong in
November. While no major showers are active this month, the two Taurid
radiants plus the Leonids keep the skies active. The addition of strong
sporadic rates make November one of the better months to view meteor
activity from north of the equator. Skies are fairly quiet as seen from the
southern hemisphere this month. Activity from the three showers mentioned
above may be seen from south of the equator, but the sporadic rates are much
lower than those seen in the northern hemisphere.
During this period the moon reaches its new phase on Monday November 16th.
On that date the moon lies close to the sun and is not visible at night. The
same circumstances exist for this weekend. As the week progresses the waxing
crescent moon will enter the evening sky but still set well before the
active morning hours arrive. The estimated total hourly rates for evening
observers this week is near five as seen from the northern hemisphere and
three from the southern hemisphere. For morning observers the estimated
total hourly rates should be near twenty-two from the northern hemisphere
and ten as seen from the southern hemisphere. The actual rates will also
depend on factors such as personal light and motion perception, local
weather conditions, alertness and experience in watching meteor activity.
The radiant positions and rates listed below are exact for Saturday
night/Sunday morning November 14/15. These positions do not change greatly
day to day so the listed coordinates may be used during this entire period.
Most star atlases (available at science stores and planetariums) will
provide maps with grid lines of the celestial coordinates so that you may
find out exactly where these positions are located in the sky. A planisphere
or computer planetarium program is also useful in showing the sky at any
time of night on any date of the year. Activity from each radiant is best
seen when it is positioned highest in the sky, either due north or south
along the meridian, depending on your latitude. It must be remembered that
meteor activity is rarely seen at the radiant position. Rather they shoot
outwards from the radiant so it is best to center your field of view so that
the radiant lies at the edge and not the center. Viewing there will allow
you to easily trace the path of each meteor back to the radiant (if it is a
shower member) or in another direction if it is a sporadic. Meteor activity
is not seen from radiants that are located below the horizon. The positions
below are listed in a west to east manner in order of right ascension
(celestial longitude). The positions listed first are located further west
therefore are accessible earlier in the night while those listed further
down the list rise later in the night.
The following showers are expected to be active this week:
Sirko Molau's studies of video radiants has revealed that activity from the
famous Andromedid shower, noted for intense storms during the 19th century,
may still be seen throughout November. The current position of the large
radiant is 01:33 (023) +33. This position lies near the intersection of the
constellations of Pisces, Triangulum, and Andromeda. The nearest bright star
is second magnitude Mirach (Beta Andromedae), which lies four degrees to the
northwest. Visual activity is expected to be low, but detectable. The
Andromedid radiant is best placed near 2200 (10pm) local standard time (LST)
when it lies on the meridian. At 19km/sec., the average Andromedid will
appear as a very slow moving meteor. Sirko mentions that these meteors are
"conspicuously slow and of almost constant activity" during this period.
Another shower verified by video means are the Omicron Eridanids (OER). This
shower is active from November 13-20 with maximum activity occurring on the
14th. The radiant is currently located at 04:02 (060) -02. This position
lies in eastern Eridanus, fifteen degrees northwest of zero magnitude Rigel
(Beta Orionis) and eight degrees south of fourth magnitude star Nu Tauri.
The radiant is best placed near 0100 LST, when it lies highest above the
horizon. Current rates would be less than one per hour. At 27km/sec., the
average Omicron Eridanid is slow.
The Northern Taurids (NTA) are active from a large radiant centered at 04:06
(061) +23, which lies in western Taurus, four degrees southeast of the
famous naked eye star cluster known as the Pleiades. The radiant is best
placed near 0100 LST, when it lies highest above the horizon, but activity
may be seen all night long. Meteors from the Northern Taurids strike the
atmosphere at 29km/sec., which would produce meteors of slow velocity.
Expected rates would be near three per hour as seen from the northern
hemisphere and two per hour as seen south of the equator.
The center of the large Southern Taurid (STA) radiant lies at 04:09 (062)
+15. This position lies in western Taurus, five degrees southwest of the
first magnitude orange star Aldebaran (Alpha Tauri). The radiant is best
placed near 0100 LST, when it lies highest above the horizon, but activity
may be seen all night long. Striking the atmosphere at 29 km/sec., the
average Southern Taurid meteor travels slowly through the skies. Rates
should be near one per hour no matter your location.
The November Orionids (NOO) were recently discovered by analyzing video
data. This shower is active from November 18 through December 9. Maximum
activity occurs on November 30. The radiant is currently (11/18) located at
05:32 (083) +16. This position lies on the Orion/Taurus border, six degrees
north of the third magnitude star Lambda Orionis. These meteors are also
best seen near 0300 LST when the radiant lies on the meridian and highest
above the horizon. At 44 km/sec. the November Orionids produce mostly medium
velocity meteors.
The Alpha Monocerotids (AMO) are active from November 15-25, with maximum
occurring on the 21st. This shower has produced outbursts in the past but
none are expected for many years to come. Rates are expected to be less than
one shower member per hour, even on the night of maximum activity. The
radiant is currently located at 07:28 (112) +02. This position lies in
central Canis Minor, only three degrees southwest of the zero magnitude star
Procyon (Alpha Canis Minoris). These meteors are also best seen near 0500
LST when the radiant lies highest above the horizon in a dark sky. At 65
km/sec. the Alpha Monocerotids produce mostly swift meteors.
The Leonids (LEO) reach maximum activity on the morning of November 17th.
The Leonids possess a sharp peak of short duration. These peaks in activity
are caused by the Earth passing close to one of the filaments of material
produced by comet 55P Temple-Tuttle. This year the Earth passes close to the
several filaments. Between 2100 and 2200 Universal Time (UT) on November
17th, the Earth is expected to pass through three filaments that were
produced by 55P Temple-Tuttle in 1466 and 1533. This timing is best for
those watching from central Asia. A fairly strong traditional maximum is
also expected near 0900 UT, which is well timed for North America. This
corresponds to 0400 EST, 0300 CST, 0200 MST, and 0100 PST on the morning of
the 17th. The radiant is currently located at 10:09 (152) +23. This position
lies in western Leo, just west of the third magnitude star Zeta Leonis.
Rates this weekend are expected to be near one per hour. At 70km/sec., the
average Leonid is swift with a high percentage of trains. The radiant does
not rise until the late evening hours so it is advised to wait until after
midnight before beginning serious observations. The radiant is most
favorably located during the last dark hour before the onset of morning
twilight when it lies highest in a dark sky.
As seen from the mid-northern hemisphere (45N) one would expect to see
approximately sixteen Sporadic meteors per hour during the last hour before
dawn as seen from rural observing sites. Evening rates would be near four
per hour. As seen from the mid-southern hemisphere (45S), morning rates
would be near six per hour as seen from rural observing sites and two per
hour during the evening hours. Locations between these two extremes would
see activity between the listed figures.
The table below presents a condensed version of the expected activity this
week. Rates and positions are exact for Saturday night/Sunday morning but
may be used all week long.
Andromedids (AND) - 01:33 (023) +33 Velocity - 19km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere -<1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Omicron Eridanids (OER) - 04:02 (060) -02 Velocity - 27km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere -<1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Northern Taurids (NTA) - 04:06 (061) +23 Velocity - 29km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 3 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 2 per hr.
Southern Taurids (STA) - 04:09 (062)+15 Velocity - 29km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 1 per hr.
November Orionids (NOO) - 05:32 (083) +16 Velocity - 44km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Alpha Monocerotids (AMO) - 07:28 (112) +02 Velocity - 65km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Leonids (LEO) - 10:09 (152) +23 Velocity - 70km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 1 per hr.
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
International Meteor Organization
Dear Leonid friends,
The ZHR graph for the Leonids is now available at http://www.imo.net
(many thanks to Mikhail Maslov and Jakub Koukal for the first data points
:-))
*** IMPORTANT TIPS ***
Please remember to observe and report short intervals during the Leonids! As
a rule of thumb, try not to put more than 5 to 10 Leonids in a single
interval. In any case, avoid intervals longer than 10-15 minutes throughout
November 17. Even when Leonid activity appears poor due to low radiant
elevation or bad weather, you may be observing an outburst which requires
high-resolution data.
To submit a large number of intervals, the IMO electronic report form allows
you to customize the number of rows in the form. Alternatively, you may
submit your observation by submitting multiple forms (which is perhaps safer
in case your computer or connection may crash).
Also note that the intervals do not have to start at nice round times (e.g.,
2200-2210, 2210-2220 ...) It is in fact far better to use random irregular
intervals (e.g., 2203-2213, 2213-2221 ...) When all observers use the same
"clean-looking" rounded times, there is less overlap between intervals of
different observers and the resolution of the graph is effectively reduced !
Remember: accurate peak times and widths will result in even better
prediction models :-)
Clear skies and good luck !!
Geert
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
In the International Year of Astronomy 2009, due to tragical reasons, the 13rd
Astropoetry Show of the IMC and the Meteor Contemporary Poetry Project have been
replaced by a special web page around the IMC 2009, plus a mini-memorial for a
great supporter of Romanian meteor lovers, Steliana Gheorghe:
Astro-Meteor Poetry Show-Project
http://www.cosmopoetry.ro/astropoetrytoiya/astrometeorpoetryshowproject.html
Valentin Grigore
As seen from the northern hemisphere, meteor rates continue to be strong in
November. While no major showers are active this month, the two Taurid
radiants plus the Leonids keep the skies active. The addition of strong
sporadic rates make November one of the better months to view meteor
activity from north of the equator. Skies are fairly quiet as seen from the
southern hemisphere this month. Activity from the three showers mentioned
above may be seen from south of the equator, but the sporadic rates are much
lower than those seen in the northern hemisphere.
During this period the moon reaches its last quarter phase on Monday
November 9th. On that date the moon lies ninety degrees west of the sun and
rises near midnight local standard time (LST). While not the most favorable
conditions, successful meteor observations can be undertaken at this time if
one keeps the moon out of your field of view. Conditions improve with each
passing night this week as the moon wanes and rises later each morning. The
estimated total hourly rates for evening observers this week is near four as
seen from the northern hemisphere and two from the southern hemisphere. For
morning observers the estimated total hourly rates should be near fifteen
from the northern hemisphere and eight as seen from the southern hemisphere.
The actual rates will also depend on factors such as personal light and
motion perception, local weather conditions, alertness and experience in
watching meteor activity. Rates are reduced by moonlight during the morning
hours during this period.
The radiant positions and rates listed below are exact for Saturday
night/Sunday morning November 7/8. These positions do not change greatly day
to day so the listed coordinates may be used during this entire period. Most
star atlases (available at science stores and planetariums) will provide
maps with grid lines of the celestial coordinates so that you may find out
exactly where these positions are located in the sky. A planisphere or
computer planetarium program is also useful in showing the sky at any time
of night on any date of the year. Activity from each radiant is best seen
when it is positioned highest in the sky, either due north or south along
the meridian, depending on your latitude. It must be remembered that meteor
activity is rarely seen at the radiant position. Rather they shoot outwards
from the radiant so it is best to center your field of view so that the
radiant lies at the edge and not the center. Viewing there will allow you to
easily trace the path of each meteor back to the radiant (if it is a shower
member) or in another direction if it is a sporadic. Meteor activity is not
seen from radiants that are located below the horizon. The positions below
are listed in a west to east manner in order of right ascension (celestial
longitude). The positions listed first are located further west therefore
are accessible earlier in the night while those listed further down the list
rise later in the night.
The following showers are expected to be active this week:
Sirko Molau's studies of video radiants has revealed that activity from the
famous Andromedid shower, noted for intense storms during the 19th century,
may still be seen throughout November. The current position of the large
radiant is 01:27 (022) +27. This position lies in a spase area of
northeastern Pisces. The nearest bright star star is third magnitude Alpha
Trianguli, which lies five degrees to the northeast. Visual activity is
expected to be low, but detectable. The Andromedid radiant is best placed
near 2200 (10pm) LST when it lies on the meridian. At 20km/sec., the average
Andromedid will appear as a very slow moving meteor. Sirko mentions that
these meteors are "conspicuously slow and of almost constant activity"
during this period.
The Northern Taurids (NTA) are active from a large radiant centered at 03:42
(056) +22, which lies in western Taurus, three degrees southwest of the
famous naked eye star cluster known as the Pleiades. The radiant is best
placed near 0100 LST, when it lies highest above the horizon, but activity
may be seen all night long. Meteors from the Northern Taurids strike the
atmosphere at 29km/sec., which would produce meteors of slow velocity.
Expected rates would be near three per hour as seen from the northern
hemisphere and two per hour as seen south of the equator.
The center of the large Southern Taurid (STA) radiant lies at 03:45 (056)
+14. This position lies in western Taurus, ten degrees south of the famous
naked eye star cluster known as the Pleiades. The radiant is best placed
near 0100 LST, when it lies highest above the horizon, but activity may be
seen all night long. Striking the atmosphere at 29 km/sec., the average
Southern Taurid meteor travels slowly through the skies. Rates should be
near two per hour no matter your location.
The Orionids (ORI) reached maximum activity on the nights of October 21 and
22. Rates have fallen since then and will do so until the last Orionids are
seen near November 14. The radiant is currently located at 07:17 (109) +16.
This position lies in southern Gemini very close to the fourth magnitude
star Lambda Geminorum. The radiant is best placed near 0500 LST, when it
lies highest above the horizon. Current rates would be less than one per
hour. At 66km/sec., the average Orionid is swift.
The Leonids (LEO) are just now coming to life from a radiant located at
09:52 (148) +25. This position lies in western Leo, very close to the
position of the faint star 22 Leonis. Maximum activity is still more than a
week away so current rates would most likely be less than one per hour. At
70km/sec., the average Leonid is swift with a high percentage of trains. The
radiant is most favorably located during the last dark hour before the onset
of morning twilight.
As seen from the mid-northern hemisphere (45N) one would expect to see
approximately ten Sporadic meteors per hour during the last hour before dawn
as seen from rural observing sites. Evening rates would be near three per
hour. As seen from the mid-southern hemisphere (45S), morning rates would be
near four per hour as seen from rural observing sites and one per hour
during the evening hours. Locations between these two extremes would see
activity between the listed figures. Sporadic rates seen during the morning
hours are reduced during this period due to moonlight.
The table below presents a condensed version of the expected activity this
week. Rates and positions are exact for Saturday night/Sunday morning but
may be used all week long.
Andromedids (AND) - 01:27 (022) +27 Velocity - 19km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Northern Taurids (NTA) - 03:42 (056) +22 Velocity - 29km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 2 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 3 per hr.
Southern Taurids (STA) - 03:45 (056) +14 Velocity - 29km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - 2 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - 2 per hr.
Orionids (ORI) - 07:17 (109) +16 Velocity - 67km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Leonids (LEO) - 09:52 (148) +25 Velocity - 70km/sec.
Northern Hemisphere - <1 per hr. Southern Hemisphere - <1 per hr.
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
International Meteor Organization