Maximum Phase of Leonids Meteor Shower to be Observed in Armenia's Sky

On the nights of November 17-18, the maximum phase of the Leonids meteor shower will be visible in Armenia's sky. It is possible to observe 12-15 meteors per hour during this time. This information comes from the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory.

"The Leonids meteor shower can be observed every year during the period from November 8 to 22, with slight variations in the peak phase. Meteor showers occur when the Earth, moving in its orbit around the Sun, encounters a group of meteoroids usually originating from comets. As these meteors enter the Earth's atmosphere at high speed, they burn up, leaving trails reminiscent of 'falling stars'," the report states.

The Leonids travel at a considerable speed, averaging 72 km/h, and leave behind greenish trails in the sky. Their sizes can reach up to 9 mm, and their mass can go up to 85 grams.

The last significant meteor shower event was observed in 1999, followed by similar occurrences in 2000-2002, with the next expected peak in 2032. However, an increase in meteor activity can also be observed in other years.

The Leonids meteor shower was discovered on the night of November 12-13, 1833, marking the birth of meteor astronomy.