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Draconid and Southern Taurid meteor showers peak back to back and here's what to look out for and get the best view

These meteors called fireballs because of their brightness will make an entrance this week. Meteors appear on all parts of the sky and the best way to view them is by lying flat on a surface or just sitting on a chair.
UPDATED MAR 12, 2020
(Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

If you're a stargazer, an astronomy enthusiast or merely like pretty skies, here's some great stuff to look forward to. According to the International Meteor Organization, there are two meteor showers lined up for the world to see. These meteors called fireballs because of their brightness will make an entrance back to back this week.

Draconid meteor shower

It'll be visible on Tuesday, October 8 into Wednesday, October 9.

 

Draconids are famous for their huge meteor storms and the 2018 shower was observed to have over 140 meteors per hour. However, this year may not be as big but since they are pretty unpredictable, one can keep their expectations high. These kinds of meteors are best viewed before midnight. It is recommended that stargazers look for these Draconoids away from the moon. Weather predictions say that the sky should be cloudless and clear, apt for the gazing, but there's a possibility of hindrance over the Southeast and Northern Plains. 

Southern Taurid meteor shower

It'll be visible on Wednesday, October 9 into Thursday, October 10.

If you miss the Draconids, don't worry. The Taurids are up just after. According to the American Meteor Society,  "The shower is active for more than two months but rarely produces more than five shower members per hour, even at maximum activity", but don't let it rain on your parade because it further adds that The Taurids (both branches) are rich in fireballs and are often responsible for increased number of fireball reports from September through November. This night too, the moon will be very bright in the sky.

Where to watch

Meteors appear on all parts of the sky and the best way to view them is by lying flat on a surface or just sitting on a chair. You could also look at Draco constellation for Droconids and Taurus for the South Taurids. The greater the radiant point, the better the view. Experts suggest looking backward from where you spot a shower so you can trace it to the radiant point. 

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