METEOR ACTIVITY OUTLOOK 2007
Robert D. Lunsford
Meteors Section Recorder
161 Vance Street,
Chula Vista, CA 91910-4828
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Meteor Activity Outlook for June 15-21, 2007
June is a slow month for meteor activity, especially as seen from the
northern hemisphere. The June Lyrids peak mid-month but add little to the
overall activity. The June Bootids peak near month's end but can be totally
absent. Sporadic rates as seen from the northern hemisphere are lowest this
month. From the southern hemisphere sporadic rates are quite strong with
much of this activity provided by unknown ecliptical radiants which ride
high in the sky this time of year as seen from south of the equator.
During this period the moon reaches its new phase on Friday June 15.
At this time the moon is located near the sun in the sky and is
not visible at night. Later during this period the waxing crescent moon
enters the evening sky but sets well before the more productive morning
hours. The estimated total hourly rates for evening observers this week
is near two for those located north of the equator and four for observers
south of the equator. For morning observers the estimated total hourly
rates should be near nine for those located in the northern hemisphere
and eighteen for those viewing from south of the equator. These rates
assume that you are watching from rural areas away from all sources of
light pollution. 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 listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning June 16/17. 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. Doing this 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 Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 18:32 (278) -23. This area
of the sky is located in central Sagittarius, two degrees north of the third
magnitude star Lambda Sagittarii. This radiant is best placed near 0200 LDT,
when it lies on the meridian and is highest in the sky. Rates at this time
should be near two per hour as seen in the northern hemisphere and three per
hour for those located south of the equator. With an entry velocity of 30
km/sec., the average antihelion meteor would be of medium-slow speed.
The June Lyrids (JLY) are active from June 10 through the 21st with maximum
activity near the 16th. The radiant has a published position of 18:32 (278)
+35 but most of the recent activity has occurred from an area further north
toward Draco (Xi Draconids). Analysis of recent video results indicate a
sharp radiant near 18:32 (278) +45 so we suggest you use this position on
June 16 for classifying these meteors. This position lies in northern Lyra,
six degrees north of the zero magnitude star Vega (Alpha Lyrae). This
radiant culminates near 0200 local daylight saving time. Due to the high
northern position these meteors are best seen from the northern hemisphere.
With an entry velocity near 40 km/sec., the average June Lyrid meteor would
be of medium-fast speed.
Sporadic rates have bottomed out for observers in the northern hemisphere
and slightly rising for those located south of the equator. One would expect
to see perhaps seven random meteors during the last hour before dawn from
rural observing sites located in the northern hemisphere. During the first
dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps two random meteors can
be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night progresses so rates
seen near midnight would be near four per hour. Late morning sporadic rates
seen from the southern hemisphere are now near sixteen per hour from rural
observing sites. During the first dark hour after the end of evening
twilight, perhaps four random meteors can be seen per hour, increasing to
eight by midnight.
Antihelion (ANT) - 18:32 (278) -23
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - 2
June Lyrids (JLY) 18:40 (280) +45
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - >1
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
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Meteor Activity Outlook for June 1-7, 2007
June is a slow month for meteor activity, especially as seen from the
northern hemisphere. The June Lyrids peak mid-month but add little to the
overall activity. The June Bootids peak near months end but can be totally
absent. Sporadic rates as seen from the northern hemisphere are lowest this
month. From the southern hemisphere sporadic rates are quite strong with
much of this activity provided by unknown ecliptical radiants which ride
high in the sky this time of year as seen from south of the equator.
During this period the moon reaches its full phase on Friday June 1. The
moon will remain a major factor during this entire period obscuring all but
the brightest meteors. The sources of meteors listed below are active during
this period but will be difficult to observe this week due to the lunar
glare. If your sky is transparent and the limiting magnitude exceeds +5.0,
then you may be able to achieve some success. The estimated total hourly
rates for evening observers this week is near one for those in the northern
hemisphere and two for those located in the southern hemisphere. For morning
observers the estimated total hourly rates should be near eight for those
viewing in the northern hemisphere and twelve for those in the southern
hemisphere. These rates assume that you are watching from rural areas away
from all sources of light pollution. 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 this week due to intense moonlight.
The radiant positions listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning June 2/3. 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. Doing this 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.
Antihelion (ANT) - 17:40 (265) -23
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - 2
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2007
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for May 25-31, 2007
May provides the peak of the Eta Aquarid meteor shower. This is the
strongest shower visible from the southern hemisphere but unfortunately this
year glare from the waning gibbous moon will obscure all but the brightest
meteors. The much weaker Eta Lyrids peak on May 9 under slightly better
conditions. Sporadic rates seen in the northern hemisphere are nearing the
nadir of their activity curve. The lowest rates are observed in June. On a
positive note, rates seen from the southern hemisphere are increasing toward
a July maximum.
During this period the moon waxes from slightly more than half illuminated
to nearly full. This weekend the waxing gibbous moon will set during the
early morning hours and will allow an observer a short time to view the
meteor activity in dark skies before the start of morning twilight. The
estimated total hourly rates for evening observers this week is near one for
those located north of the equator and two for observers south of the
equator. For morning observers the estimated total hourly rates should be
near seven for those located in the northern hemisphere and eighteen for
those viewing from south of the equator. These rates assume that you are
watching from rural areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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. Evening rates are reduced due to the bright moon.
The radiant positions listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning May 26/27. 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. Doing this 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 Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 17:12 (258) -23. This area
of the sky is centered in southeastern Ophiuchus, three degrees northwest of
the third magnitude star Theta Ophiuchi. This radiant is best placed near
0200 LDT, when it lies on the meridian and is highest in the sky. Rates at
this time should be near one per hour as seen in the northern hemisphere and
three per hour for those located south of the equator. With an entry
velocity of 30 km/sec., the average antihelion meteor would be of
medium-slow speed.
Sporadic rates are bottoming out for observers in the northern hemisphere
and slightly rising for those located south of the equator. One would expect
to see perhaps six random meteors during the last hour before dawn from
rural observing sites located in the northern hemisphere. During the first
dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps one random meteor can
be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night progresses so rates
seen near midnight would be near three per hour. Late morning sporadic rates
seen from the southern hemisphere are now near fifteen per hour from rural
observing sites. During the first dark hour after the end of evening
twilight, perhaps two random meteors can be seen per hour, increasing to
eight by midnight. Evening rates are reduced due to the bright moon.
Antihelion (ANT) - 17:12 (258) -23
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - 3
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2007
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for may 18-24, 2007
May provides the peak of the Eta Aquarid meteor shower. This is the
strongest shower visible from the southern hemisphere but unfortunately this
year glare from the waning gibbous moon will obscure all but the brightest
meteors. The much weaker Eta Lyrids peak on May 9 under slightly better
conditions. Sporadic rates seen in the northern hemisphere are nearing the
nadir of their activity curve. The lowest rates are observed in June. On a
positive note, rates seen from the southern hemisphere are increasing toward
a July maximum.
During this period the moon reaches its first quarter phase on Wednesday May
23. At this time the moon will set near 0100 local daylight time and will
not interfere with prime time morning observing. This weekend the waxing
crescent moon will set during the early evening hours and will not interfere
with the more productive morning hours. The estimated total hourly rates for
evening observers this week is near two for those north of the equator and
three for observers south of the equator. For morning observers the
estimated total hourly rates should be near seven for those located in the
northern hemisphere and eighteen for those viewing from south of the
equator. These rates assume that you are watching from rural areas away from
all sources of light pollution. 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 listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning May 19/20. 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. Doing this 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 Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 16:48 (252) -22. This area
of the sky is centered in southwestern Ophiuchus, five degrees northeast of
the orange first magnitude star Antares (Alpha Scorpii). This radiant is
best placed near 0200 LDT, when it lies on the meridian and is highest in
the sky. Rates at this time should be near one per hour as seen in the
northern hemisphere and three per hour for those located south of the
equator. With an entry velocity of 30 km/sec., the average antihelion meteor
would be of medium-slow speed.
The Eta Aquarids (ETA) are particles from Halley's Comet, which last passed
through the inner solar system in 1986. The Earth's orbit does not currently
pass through recent orbits of Halley's comet. Rather, the meteors we now see
as Eta Aquarids were produced by the comet many hundreds of years ago when
the orbit of the comet was located much closer to the Earth. The maximum of
the Eta Aquarids occurred on May 6. At that time rates can reach thirty
shower members per hour as seen from the northern tropical areas southward.
Current rates would vary from zero to two per hour depending on your
latitude and observing conditions. The radiant is located at 23:16 (349)
+05. This area of the sky is located in western Pisces near the fourth
magnitude star Gamma Piscium. The best time to view this activity is just
before the start of morning twilight, when the radiant lies highest in a
dark sky. With an entry velocity of 66 kilometers per second, a majority of
these meteors will appear to move swiftly.
Sporadic rates are bottoming out for observers in the northern hemisphere
and slightly rising for those south of the equator. One would expect to see
perhaps six random meteors during the last hour before dawn from rural
observing sites located in the northern hemisphere. During the first dark
hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps two random meteors can be
seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night progresses so rates seen
near midnight would be near four per hour. Late morning sporadic rates seen
from the southern hemisphere are now near fifteen per hour from rural
observing sites. During the first dark hour after the end of evening
twilight, perhaps three random meteors can be seen per hour, increasing to
eight by midnight.
Antihelion (ANT) - 16:48 (252) -22
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - 3
Eta Aquarids (ETA) 23:16 (349) +05
Northern Hemisphere - >1 Southern Hemisphere - 1
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2007
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordiantor
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for May 11-17, 2007
May provides the peak of the Eta Aquarid meteor shower. This is the
strongest shower visible from the southern hemisphere but unfortunately this
year glare from the waning gibbous moon will obscure all but the brightest
meteors. The much weaker Eta Lyrids peak on May 9 under slightly better
conditions. Sporadic rates seen in the northern hemisphere are nearing the
nadir of their activity curve. The lowest rates are observed in June. On a
positive note, rates seen from the southern hemisphere are increasing toward
a July maximum.
During this period the moon reaches its new phase on Wednesday May 16. At
this time the moon will rise and set with the sun and will not interfere
with observing. This weekend the waning crescent moon will be present in the
late morning sky and will cause slight interference which can be easily
overcome by keeping the moon out of ones field of view. The estimated total
hourly rates for evening observers this week is near two for those north of
the equator and three for observers south of the equator. For morning
observers the estimated total hourly rates should be near nine for those
located in the northern hemisphere and seventeen for those viewing from
south of the equator. These rates assume that you are watching from rural
areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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 slightly reduced all this week due to moonlight.
The radiant positions listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning May 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. Doing this 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 Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 16:20 (245) -22. This area
of the sky is centered in northwestern Scorpius, seven degrees northwest of
the orange first magnitude star Antares (Alpha Scorpii). This radiant is
best placed near 0200 local daylight time (LDT), when it lies on the
meridian and is highest in the sky. Rates at this time should be near one
per hour as seen in the northern hemisphere and two per hour for those
located south of the equator. With an entry velocity of 30 km/sec., the
average antihelion meteor would be of medium-slow speed.
The Eta Lyrids (ELY) are produced by comet IRAS-Araki-Alcock, which passed
very close to the Earth twenty four years ago this May. Weak activity from
this radiant has been seen in most years from May 5 through May 17, with
maximum activity occurring on May 9. The current radiant position is located
at 19:24 (291) +45. This area of the sky is located in western Cygnus, four
degrees west of the third magnitude star Delta Cygni. The best time to view
this activity is just before the start of morning twilight, when the radiant
lies highest in a dark sky. With an entry velocity of 44 kilometers per
second, a majority of these meteors will appear to move at moderate speeds.
The Eta Aquarids (ETA) are particles from Halley's Comet, which last passed
through the inner solar system in 1986. The Earth's orbit does not currently
pass through recent orbits of Halley's comet. Rather, the meteors we now see
as Eta Aquarids were produced by the comet many hundreds of years ago when
the orbit of the comet was located much closer to the Earth. The maximum of
the Eta Aquarids occurs on May 6. At that time rates can reach thirty shower
members per hour as seen from the northern tropical areas southward. Current
rates would vary from zero to five per hour depending on your latitude and
observing conditions. The radiant is located at 22:52 (343) +02. This area
of the sky is located at the intersection of the constellations Pegasus,
Aquarius and Pisces. The best time to view this activity is just before the
start of morning twilight, when the radiant lies highest in a dark sky. With
an entry velocity of 66 kilometers per second, a majority of these meteors
will appear to move swiftly.
Sporadic rates are slowing decreasing for observers in the northern
hemisphere and slightly rising for those south of the equator. One would
expect to see perhaps five random meteors during the last hour before dawn
from rural observing sites located in the northern hemisphere. During the
first dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps two random
meteors can be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night
progresses so rates seen near midnight would be near three per hour. Late
morning sporadic rates seen from the southern hemisphere are now near twelve
per hour from rural observing sites. During the first dark hour after the
end of evening twilight, perhaps three random meteors can be seen per hour,
increasing to six by midnight. Morning rates are slightly reduced all this
week due to moonlight.
Antihelion (ANT) - 15:24 (231) -19
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - 2
Eta Lyrids (ELY) 19:24 (291) +45
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - <1
Eta Aquarids (ETA) 22:04 (331) -03
Northern Hemisphere - 2 Southern Hemisphere - 3
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2007
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Sections Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for May 4-10, 2007
May provides the peak of the Eta Aquarid meteor shower. This is the
strongest shower visible from the southern hemisphere but unfortunately this
year glare from the waning gibbous moon will obscure all but the brightest
meteors. The much weaker Eta Lyrids peak on May 9 under slightly better
conditions. Sporadic rates seen in the northern hemisphere are nearing the
nadir of their activity curve. The lowest rates are observed in June. On a
positive note, rates seen from the southern hemisphere are increasing toward
a July maximum.
During this period the moon reaches its last quarter phase on Thursday May
10. The waning gibbous moon will be a major factor in trying to observe this
week. The sources of meteors listed below are active during this period but
will be difficult to observe this week due to the lunar glare. If your sky
is transparent and the limiting magnitude exceeds +5.0, then you may be able
to achieve some success. The estimated total hourly rates for evening
observers this week is near one for those in the Northern Hemisphere and two
for those located in the Southern Hemisphere. For morning observers the
estimated total hourly rates should be near eight for those viewing in the
Northern Hemisphere and twelve for those in the Southern Hemisphere. These
rates assume that you are watching from rural areas away from all sources of
light pollution. 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 this week due
to intense moonlight.
The radiant positions listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning May 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. Doing this 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.
Antihelion (ANT) - 15:52 (238)-20
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - 2
Eta Lyrids (ELY) 18:56 (284) +44
Northern Hemisphere - >1 Southern Hemisphere - >1
Eta Aquarids (ETA) 22:32 (338) -01
Northern Hemisphere - 5 Southern Hemisphere - 7
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2007
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for April 27-May 3, 2007
May provides the peak of the Eta Aquarid meteor shower. This is the
strongest shower visible from the southern hemisphere but unfortunately this
year glare from the waning gibbous moon will obscure all but the brightest
meteors. The much weaker Eta Lyrids peak on May 9 under slightly better
conditions. Sporadic rates seen in the northern hemisphere are nearing the
nadir of their activity curve. The lowest rates are observed in June. On a
positive note, rates seen from the southern hemisphere are increasing toward
a July maximum.
During this period the moon reaches its full phase on Wednesday May 2. At
this time the intensely bright moon will rise near sunset and set near
sunrise. This weekend there is a small window of opportunity to view meteor
activity in dark skies during the time between moonset and the start of
morning twilight. This window increases as one moves south due to the fact
that nights are longer in southern locations this time of year. The
estimated total hourly rates for evening observers this week is near one for
those north of the equator and two for observers south of the equator. For
morning observers the estimated total hourly rates should be near seven for
those located in the northern hemisphere and twenty for those viewing from
south of the equator. These rates assume that you are watching from rural
areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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.
Evening rates are reduced all this week due to the intense moonlight.
Morning rates become more affected as we approach the night of the full
moon.
The radiant positions listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning April 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. Doing this 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 Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 15:24 (231) -19. This area
of the sky is centered in eastern Libra, five degrees northwest of the
second magnitude star Dschubba (Delta Scorpii). This radiant is best placed
near 0200 LDT when it lies on the meridian and is highest in the sky. Rates
at this time should be near one per hour as seen in the northern hemisphere
and two per hour for those located south of the equator. With an entry
velocity of 30 km/sec., the average antihelion meteor would be of
medium-slow speed.
The Eta Aquarids (ETA) are particles from Halley's Comet, which last passed
through the inner solar system in 1986. Even though this is now over twenty
years ago, material is still encountered every year in late April and
throughout most of May. We pass closest to Halley's orbit on May 6. At that
time Eta Aquarid rates can reach thirty shower members per hour as seen from
the northern tropical areas southward. Current rates would vary from zero to
ten per hour depending on your latitude and observing conditions. The
radiant is located at 22:04 (331) -03. This area of the sky is located in
northern Aquarius, three degrees south of the third magnitude star
Sadalmelik (Alpha Aquarii). The best time to view this activity is just
before the start of morning twilight, when the radiant lies highest in a
dark sky. With an entry velocity of 66 kilometers per second, a majority of
these meteors will appear to move swiftly.
Sporadic rates are slowing decreasing for observers in the northern
hemisphere and slightly rising for those south of the equator. One would
expect to see perhaps seven random meteors during the last hour before dawn
from rural observing sites located in the northern hemisphere. During the
first dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps one random meteor
can be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night progresses so
rates seen near midnight would be near three per hour. Late morning sporadic
rates seen from the southern hemisphere are now near fourteen per hour from
rural observing sites. During the first dark hour after the end of evening
twilight, perhaps two random meteors can be seen per hour, increasing to
seven by midnight. Evening rates are reduced all this week due to the
intense moonlight. Morning rates become more affected as we approach the
night of the full moon.
Antihelion (ANT) - 14:04 (211) -12
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - 2
Eta Aquarids (ETA) 21:36 (324) -07
Northern Hemisphere - 2 Southern Hemisphere - 3
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2006
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for April 20-26, 2007
April has one major annual shower and the start of another. The Lyrids are
active from April 16-25 and reach maximum activity on the 22nd. While not
the strongest annual shower they produce much better rates than has been
seen for the past three months. The Eta Aquarids also reach a ZHR of one on
April 19 and slowly continue to increase in strength as the month
progresses. Sporadic rates seen in the northern hemisphere are actually
worse than those seen in March. This trend will continue through June. On
the other hand rates seen from the southern hemisphere are increasing toward
a July maximum.
During this period the moon reaches its first quarter phase on Tuesday April
24. At this time the half illuminated moon will set near 0100 local daylight
time and will not interfere with observing the remainder of the morning. The
estimated total hourly rates for evening observers this week is near two for
those north of the equator and three for observers south of the equator. For
morning observers the estimated total hourly rates should be near twenty no
matter your location. These rates assume that you are watching from rural
areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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.
Evening rates are reduced due to moonlight.
The radiant positions listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning April 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. Doing this 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 Pi Puppids (PPU) is a relatively new shower with most of the activity
occurring when the parent comet (26P Grigg-Skjellerup) is near perihelion.
This comet will next be at perihelion in March 2008 so a trace of activity
from this shower is not out of the question. The radiant for this shower
lies far to the south and is nearly impossible to detect north of thirty
degrees north latitude. The radiant position lies at 07:18 (110) -45. This
area of the sky is located in southern Puppis, two degrees southwest of the
third magnitude star Sigma Puppis. The radiant lies highest in a dark sky as
soon as it becomes dark at the end of evening twilight. Peak activity occurs
on April 23. Away from this night rates are expected to be far less than one
per hour. With an entry velocity of only 18 kilometers per second, these
meteors will appear to move very slowly. Shower members are usually quite
bright which may also aid in their identification.
The Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 14:56 (224) -16. This area
of the sky is centered in western Libra, close to the third magnitude star
Zubenelgenubi (Alpha Librae). This radiant is best placed near 0200 LDT when
it lies on the meridian and is highest in the sky. Rates at this time should
be near one per hour as seen in the northern hemisphere and two per hour for
those located south of the equator. With an entry velocity of 30 km/sec.,
the average antihelion meteor would be of medium-slow speed.
The Lyrids (LYR) are the first major annual shower of the season. ZHR's
reached one on April 16th and remain at or slightly above this level through
April 25. According to the IMO, peak rates will occur on Sunday April 22
near 22:30 Universal Time. This timing favors Asia where local observers
will actually see the best rates on the morning of April 23. For North
America this time corresponds to 6:30 PM EDT and 3:30 PM PDT on April 22,
which of course is during daylight. Peak Lyrid rates seen from North America
should be similar on both the mornings of the 22nd and 23rd. ZHR's average
eighteen but raw visual rates can vary from 5-25, depending on your
observing conditions. The radiant currently lies at 18:04 (271) +34. This
area of the sky is located in eastern Hercules, eight degrees southwest of
the brilliant zero magnitude star Vega (Alpha Lyrae). The radiant rises in
the northeastern sky during the late evening hours for most locations in the
Northern Hemisphere. One should wait until the radiant reaches an elevation
of thirty degrees before commencing observations. At lower radiant
elevations only a small fraction of the Lyrid activity can be seen. For 30
degrees north latitude this occurs near midnight. The radiant would reach
thirty degrees elevation earlier for locations further north and later for
locations further south. The best time to view this activity is just before
the start of morning twilight, when the radiant lies highest in a dark sky.
With an entry velocity of 49 kilometers per second, a majority of these
meteors will appear to move with moderate to swift speeds. The Lyrids are
also known to produce a fair amount of meteors with persistent trains and an
occasional fireball.
The The Eta Aquarids (ETA) are particles from Halley's Comet, which last
passed through the inner solar system in 1986. Even though this is now over
twenty years ago, material is still encountered every year in late April and
throughout most of May. We pass closest to Halley's orbit on May 6. At that
time Eta Aquarid rates can reach thirty shower members per hour as seen from
the northern tropical areas southward. Current rates would be less than one
per hour from a radiant located at 21:36 (324) -07. This area of the sky is
located in western Aquarius, one degree southeast of the third magnitude
star Sadalsuud (Beta Aquarii). The best time to view this activity is just
before the start of morning twilight, when the radiant lies highest in a
dark sky. With an entry velocity of 66 kilometers per second, a majority of
these meteors will appear to move swiftly.
Sporadic rates are slowing decreasing for observers in the northern
hemisphere and slightly rising for those south of the equator. One would
expect to see perhaps seven random meteors during the last hour before dawn
from rural observing sites located in the northern hemisphere. During the
first dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps one random
meteors can be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night
progresses so rates seen near midnight would be near four per hour. Late
morning sporadic rates seen from the southern hemisphere are now near
thirteen per hour from rural observing sites. During the first dark hour
after the end of evening twilight, perhaps two random meteors can be seen
per hour, increasing to eight by midnight. Evening rates are reduced due to
moonlight.
Pi Puppids (PPU) 07:18 (110) -45
Northern Hemisphere - 0 Southern Hemisphere - <1
Antihelion (ANT) - 14:04 (211) -12
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - 2
Lyrids (LYR) 17:32 (263) +34
Northern Hemisphere - 10 Southern Hemisphere - 3
Eta Aquarids (ETA) 1:36 (324) -07
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - 1
For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2006
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for April 13-19, 2007
April has one major annual shower and the start of another. The Lyrids are
active from April 16-25 and reach maximum activity on the 22nd. While not
the strongest annual shower they produce much better rates than has been
seen for the past three months. The Eta Aquarids also reach a ZHR of one on
April 19 and slowly continue to increase in strength as the month
progresses. Sporadic rates seen in the northern hemisphere are actually
worse than those seen in March. This trend will continue through June. On
the other hand rates seen from the southern hemisphere are increasing toward
a July maximum.
During this period the moon reaches its new phase on Tuesday April 17. At
this time the moon will rise and set with the sun and will not interfere
with observing during this period. The estimated total hourly rates for
evening observers this week is near two for those north of the equator and
three for observers south of the equator. For morning observers the
estimated total hourly rates should be near nine for northern observers and
fifteen for those south of the equator. These rates assume that you are
watching from rural areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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 listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning April 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. Doing this 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 Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 14:32 (218) -15. This area
of the sky is centered in western Libra, five degrees northwest of the third
magnitude star Zubenelgenubi (Alpha Librae). This radiant is best placed
near 0200 LDT when it lies on the meridian and is highest in the sky. Rates
at this time should be near one per hour as seen in the northern hemisphere
and two per hour for those located south of the equator. With an entry
velocity of 30 km/sec., the average Antihelion meteor would be of
medium-slow speed.
The Lyrids (LYR) are the first major annual shower of the season. ZHR's
reach one on April 16th and remain at or slightly above this level through
April 25. According to the IMO, peak rates will occur on Sunday April 22
near 22:30 Universal Time. This timing favors Asia where local observers
will actually see the best rates on the morning of April 23. For North
America this time corresponds to 6:30 PM EDT and 3:30 PM PDT on April 22,
which of course is during daylight. Peak Lyrid rates seen from North America
should be similar on both the mornings of the 22nd and 23rd. ZHR's average
eighteen but raw visual rates can vary from 5-25, depending on your
observing conditions. The radiant currently lies at 17:32 (263) +34. This
area of the sky is located in central Hercules, four degrees southeast of
the third magnitude star Pi Herculis. The radiant rises in the northeastern
sky during the late evening hours for most locations in the Northern
Hemisphere. One should wait until the radiant reaches an elevation of thirty
degrees before commencing observations. At lower radiant elevations only a
small fraction of the Lyrid activity can be seen. For 30 degrees north
latitude this occurs near midnight. The radiant would reach thirty degrees
elevation earlier for locations further north and later for locations
further south. The best time to view this activity is just before the start
of morning twilight, when the radiant lies highest in a dark sky. With an
entry velocity of 49 kilometers per second, a majority of these meteors will
appear to move with moderate to swift speeds. The Lyrids are also known to
produce a fair amount of meteors with persistent trains and an occasional
fireball.
Sporadic rates are slowing decreasing for observers in the northern
hemisphere and slightly rising for those south of the equator. One would
expect to see perhaps seven random meteors during the last hour before dawn
from rural observing sites located in the northern hemisphere. During the
first dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps two random
meteors can be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night
progresses so rates seen near midnight would be near four per hour. Late
morning sporadic rates seen from the southern hemisphere are now near
thirteen per hour from rural observing sites. During the first dark hour
after the end of evening twilight, perhaps three random meteors can be seen
per hour, increasing to eight by midnight.
Antihelion (ANT) - 14:04 (211) -12
Northern Hemisphere 1 - Southern Hemisphere 2
Lyrids (LYR) 17:32 (263) +34
Northern Hemisphere 1 - Southern Hemisphere <1
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2006
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for April 6-12, 2007
April has one major annual shower and the start of another. The Lyrids are
active from April 16-25 and reach maximum activity on the 22nd. While not
the strongest annual shower they produce much better rates than has been
seen for the past three months. The Eta Aquarids also reach a ZHR of one on
April 19 and slowly continue to increase in strength as the month
progresses. Sporadic rates seen in the northern hemisphere are actually
worse than those seen in March. This trend will continue through June. On
the other hand rates seen from the southern hemisphere are increasing toward
a July maximum.
During this period the moon reaches its last quarter phase on Tuesday April
10. At this time the moon will rise near 0100 and will be in the sky the
remainder of the morning. One can still hold successful observations simply
by keeping the moon out of your field of view. The estimated total hourly
rates for evening observers this week is near two for those north of the
equator and three for observers south of the equator. For morning observers
the estimated total hourly rates should be near six for northern observers
and twelve for those south of the equator. These rates assume that you are
watching from rural areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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 due to moonlight.
The radiant positions listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning April 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. Doing this 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 Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 14:04 (211) -12. This area
of the sky is centered in southeastern Virgo, three degrees southwest of the
fourth magnitude star Kappa Virginis. This radiant is best placed near 0200
LDT when it lies on the meridian and is highest in the sky. Rates at this
time should be near two per hour no matter your location. With an entry
velocity of 30 km/sec., the average Antihelion meteor would be of
medium-slow speed.
Sporadic rates are slowing decreasing for observers in the northern
hemisphere and slightly rising for those south of the equator. One would
expect to see perhaps six random meteors during the last hour before dawn
from rural observing sites located in the northern hemisphere. During the
first dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps two random
meteors can be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night
progresses so rates seen near midnight would be near four per hour. Late
morning sporadic rates seen from the southern hemisphere are now near a ten
per hour from rural observing sites. During the first dark hour after the
end of evening twilight, perhaps three random meteors can be seen per hour,
increasing to eight by midnight. Morning rates are reduced due to moonlight.
Antihelion (ANT) - 14:04 (211) -12
Northern Hemisphere - 2 Southern Hemisphere - 2
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2006
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for March 16-22, 2007
March provides some of the lowest meteor activity of the year. This is
especially true for northern observers. There are no major showers active
this month and only one minor shower that peaks this month (Gamma Normids),
and its existence is suspect. This suspected radiant is best seen from the
southern hemisphere. The only other radiant active this month (other than
the declining Delta Leonids) is the antihelion radiant, now situated in
Virgo. On the bright side, March is prime time for evening fireballs and
many have been reported during star parties and Messier marathons this
month.
During this period the moon reaches its new phase on Monday March 19. At
this time the moon will be located near the sun and will not interfere with
meteor observing this week. The estimated total hourly rates for evening
observers this week is near two for those north of the equator and three for
observers south of the equator. For morning observers the estimated total
hourly rates should be near ten for northern observers and fifteen for those
south of the equator. These rates assume that you are watching from rural
areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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 listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning March 17/18. 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. Doing this 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 Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 12:40 (190) -05. This area
of the sky is centered in central Virgo, three degrees south of the famous
third magnitude double star Porrima (Gamma Virginis). This radiant is best
placed near 0200 LDT when it lies on the meridian and is highest in the sky.
Rates at this time should be near two per hour no matter your location. With
an entry velocity of 30 km/sec., the average Antihelion meteor would be of
medium-slow speed.
The Gamma Normids (GNO) are a bit suspect at this time. Not only is the
activity suspect but the radiant position is not positively known. The
published date of maximum activity is March 14 but newer data may show that
it occurs a few days later. The published radiant is currently located at
16:12 (243) -50. This position lies in central Norma, two degrees west of
the fourth magnitude star Gamma Normae. Predicted ZHR's are near four at
maximum activity. Due to the far southern declination of the radiant, this
shower is not well seen north of the northern equatorial regions. This area
of the sky is best placed near 0600 LDT when it lies highest in the sky. At
56 km/sec. the Gamma Normids normally produce meteors of swift angular
velocities.
Sporadic rates are slowing decreasing for observers in the northern
hemisphere and slightly rising for those south of the equator. One would
expect to see perhaps eight random meteors during the last hour before dawn
from rural observing sites located in the northern hemisphere. During the
first dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps two random
meteors can be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night
progresses so rates seen near midnight would be near five per hour. Late
morning sporadic rates seen from the southern hemisphere are now near a
dozen per hour from rural observing sites. During the first dark hour after
the end of evening twilight, perhaps three random meteors can be seen per
hour, increasing to six by midnight.
Antihelion (ANT) - 12:40 (190) -05
Northern Hemisphere - 2 Southern Hemisphere - 2
Gamma Normids (GNO) 16:12 (243) -50
Northern Hemisphere - >1 Southern Hemisphere - 1
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2006
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for March 9-15, 2007
March provides some of the lowest meteor activity of the year. This is
especially true for northern observers. There are no major showers active
this month and only one minor shower that peaks this month (Gamma Normids),
and its existence is suspect. This suspected radiant is best seen from the
southern hemisphere. The only other radiant active this month (other than
the declining Delta Leonids) is the antihelion radiant, now situated in
Virgo. On the bright side, March is prime time for evening fireballs and
many have been reported during star parties and Messier marathons this
month.
During this period the moon reaches its last quarter phase on Monday March
12. At this time the moon will rise near 0100 local daylight time and will
hamper observing the remainder of the morning. The estimated total hourly
rates for evening observers this week is near two for those north of the
equator and three for observers south of the equator. For morning observers
the estimated total hourly rates should be near seven for northern observers
and nine for those south of the equator. These rates assume that you are
watching from rural areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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 morning hours due to
moonlight.
The radiant positions listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning March 10/11. 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. Doing this 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 Delta Leonids (DLE) are now near the end of their active period for
2007. Rates seen from anywhere would now be less than one per hour from a
radiant now centered at 12:04 (181) +12. This area of the sky is centered in
northwestern Virgo, four degrees southeast of the second magnitude star
Denebola (Beta Leonis). This radiant is best placed near 0200 Local Daylight
Time (LDT) when it lies on the meridian and is highest in the sky. With an
entry velocity of 23 km/sec., the average Delta Leonid meteor would be of
slow speed.
The Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 12:12 (183) -02. This area
of the sky is centered in western Virgo, two degrees west of the fourth
magnitude star Eta Virginis. This radiant is best placed near 0200 LDT when
it lies on the meridian and is highest in the sky. Rates at this time should
be near two per hour no matter your location. With an entry velocity of 30
km/sec., the average Antihelion meteor would be of medium-slow speed.
The Gamma Normids (GNO) are a bit suspect at this time. Not only is the
activity suspect but the radiant position is not positively known. The
published date of maximum activity is March 14 but newer data may show that
it occurs a few days later. The published radiant is currently located at
15:45 (236) -50. This position lies in a remote area of western Norma, eight
degrees northeast of the third magnitude star Iota Lupi. Predicted ZHR's are
near four at maximum activity. Actual rates as seen from the southern
hemisphere would be 1-2 per hour. Due to the far southern declination of the
radiant, this shower is not well seen north of the northern equatorial
regions. This area of the sky is best placed near 0600 LDT when it lies
highest in the sky. At 56 km/sec. the Gamma Normids normally produce
meteors of swift angular velocities.
Sporadic rates are slowing decreasing for observers no matter your location.
One would expect to see perhaps five random meteors during the last hour
before dawn from rural observing sites located in the northern hemisphere.
During the first dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps two
random meteors can be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night
progresses so rates seen near midnight would be near four per hour. Sporadic
rates seen from the southern hemisphere are also falling toward a mid-month
low. One would expect to see perhaps six random meteors during the last hour
before dawn from rural observing sites. During the first dark hour after the
end of evening twilight, perhaps three random meteors can be seen per hour,
increasing to five by midnight. Morning rates are reduced due to moonlight.
Delta Leonids (DLE) 12:04 (181) +12
Northern Hemisphere - >1 Southern Hemisphere - >1
Antihelion (ANT) - 12:12 (183) -02
Northern Hemisphere - 2 Southern Hemisphere - 2
Gamma Normids (GNO) 15:45 (236) -50
Northern Hemisphere - >1 Southern Hemisphere - 1
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2006
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for February 16-22, 2007
February meteor rates will be less than those seen in January for observers
located in the northern hemisphere. Only the weak Delta Leonids are active
this month. Combine this with falling sporadic rates and it is often a
struggle to go out into the cold. The southern hemisphere also experiences a
dip in sporadic rates but the activity from the Alpha Centaurids more than
makes up this difference. Observers south of the equator are encouraged to
take advantage of the warm nights and to view the meteor activity as often
as possible. There are many suspected radiants in the southern sky this time
of year which are in need of study. Only the Alpha Centaurids have been
verified but there may be other centers of activity awaiting discovery.
This week the moon reaches its new phase on Saturday February 17. At this
time the moon will lie close to the sun and will not interfere with
observing anytime during the night. Later next week a waxing crescent moon
will enter the evening sky but will be too thin and will set too early to
cause any problem to meteor observers. The estimated total hourly rates for
evening observers this week is near three for those viewing from the
northern hemisphere and four for those located south of the equator. For
morning observers the estimated total hourly rates should be near twelve for
observers north of the equator and seventeen for those observers viewing
from the southern hemisphere. These rates assume that you are watching from
rural areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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 listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning February 17/18. 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. This method 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.
These showers are expected to be active this week:
The Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 10:48 (162) +06. This area
of the sky lies on the Leo/Sextans border some fifteen degrees southeast of
the first magnitude star Regulus (Alpha Leonis). This radiant is best placed
near 0100 local standard time when it lies on the meridian and is situated
highest in the sky. Rates at this time should be near two per hour no matter
your location. With an entry velocity of 30 km/sec., the average Antihelion
meteor would be of medium-slow speed.
The weak Delta Leonid (DLE) radiant is now located at 10:48 (162) +18. This
position lies in northern Leo near the faint star 51 Leonis. This position
is just twelve degrees north of the Antihelion radiant so great care must be
taken when assigning these meteors. The radiant is best placed near 0100
local standard time when it lies on the meridian and is situated highest in
the sky. Rates at this time should be less than one per hour, no matter your
location. The peak activity occurs on February 25, when the ZHR reaches two.
With an entry velocity of 23 km/sec., the average Delta Leonid meteor would
be of slow speed.
The Alpha Centaurids (ACE) reached maximum activity on February 8 with a ZHR
near five. Current rates would be near two shower members per hour as seen
from the southern hemisphere. This radiant is now centered at 14:52
(223) -63. This area of the sky lies in central Circinus, three degrees
southeast brilliant star Rigel Kentaurus (Alpha Centauri). This radiant is
best placed near 0500 local standard time when it lies on the meridian and
is situated highest in the sky. Unfortunately for northern observers, this
radiant does not rise above the horizon for observers north of latitude 30
north. Therefore only the north tropical areas and points further south can
view this activity. With an entry velocity of 56 km/sec., the average Alpha
Centaurid meteor would be of swift speed.
Sporadic rates are slowing decreasing for observers located in the northern
hemisphere. One would expect to see perhaps ten random meteors during the
last hour before dawn from rural observing sites. During the first dark hour
after the end of evening twilight, perhaps three random meteors can be seen
per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night progresses so rates seen near
midnight would be near six per hour. Sporadic rates seen from the southern
hemisphere are near the first of two annual maximums. One would expect to
see perhaps thirteen random meteors during the last hour before dawn from
rural observing sites. During the first dark hour after the end of evening
twilight, perhaps four random meteors can be seen per hour, increasing to
eight by midnight.
Antihelion (ANT) - 10:48 (162) +06
Northern Hemisphere - 2 Southern Hemisphere - 2
Delta Leonid (DLE) 10:48 (162) +18
Northern Hemisphere - >1 Southern Hemisphere - >1
Alpha Centaurids (ACE) 14:52 (223) -63
Northern Hemisphere - >1 Southern Hemisphere - 2
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for February 2-8, 2007
February meteor rates will be less than those seen in January for observers
located in the northern hemisphere. Only the weak Delta Leonids are active
this month. Combine this with falling sporadic rates and it is often a
struggle to go out into the cold. The southern hemisphere also experiences a
dip in sporadic rates but the activity from the Alpha Centaurids more than
makes up this difference. Observers south of the equator are encouraged to
take advantage of the warm nights and to view the meteor activity as often
as possible. There are many suspected radiants in the southern sky this time
of year which are in need of study. Only the Alpha Centaurids have been
verified but there may be other centers of activity awaiting discovery.
During this period the moon reaches its full phase on Friday February 2. The
sources of meteors listed below are active during this period but will be
difficult to observe this week. If your sky is transparent and the limiting
magnitude exceeds +5.0, then you may be able to achieve some success. The
estimated total hourly rates for evening observers this week is near one for
those in the Northern Hemisphere and two for those located in the Southern
Hemisphere. For morning observers the estimated total hourly rates should be
near four for those viewing in the Northern Hemisphere and seven for those
in the Southern Hemisphere. These rates assume that you are watching from
rural areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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 this week due to intense moonlight.
The radiant positions listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning February 3/4. 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. Doing this 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.
Antihelion (ANT) - 09:52 (148) +11
Northern Hemisphere 1 - Southern Hemisphere >1
Alpha Centaurids (ACE) 13:48 (207) -59
Northern Hemisphere >1 - Southern Hemisphere 2
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2006
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for January 26-February 1, 2007
January sees a peak of sporadic activity for the southern hemisphere while
rates seen north of the equator begin a steady downward turn that continues
throughout the first half of the year. The sporadic activity is good for
both hemispheres, but not as good as it was for northern observers in
December. Once the Quadrantids have passed the shower activity for January
is very quiet.
This week the moon waxes from half illumination to nearly full. With each
passing night the window of opportunity for dark skies between midnight and
dawn grows progressively smaller. The estimated total hourly rates for
evening observers this week is near three for those viewing from the
northern hemisphere and four for those located south of the equator. For
morning observers the estimated total hourly rates should be near thirteen
for observers north of the equator and fifteen for those observers viewing
from the southern hemisphere. These rates assume that you are watching from
rural areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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 listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning January 27/28. 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. This method 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.
These showers are expected to be active this week:
The Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 09:24 (141) +14. This area
of the sky lies in western Leo, ten degrees north of the first magnitude
star Regulus (Alpha Leonis). This radiant is best placed near 0100 local
standard time when it lies on the meridian and is highest in the sky. Rates
at this time should be near two per hour as seen from the northern
hemisphere and one per hour for observers located south of the equator. With
an entry velocity of 30 km/sec., the average Antihelion meteor would be of
medium-slow speed.
Sporadic rates have passed the late year plateau for observers located in
the northern hemisphere. One would expect to see perhaps twelve random
meteors during the last hour before dawn from rural observing sites. During
the first dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps two random
meteors can be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night
progresses so rates seen near midnight would be near five per hour. Sporadic
rates seen from the southern hemisphere are near the first of two annual
maximums. One would expect to see perhaps fifteen random meteors during the
last hour before dawn from rural observing sites. During the first dark hour
after the end of evening twilight, perhaps three random meteors can be seen
per hour, increasing to six by midnight.
Antihelion (ANT) - 09:24 (141) +14
Northern Hemisphere - 2 Southern Hemisphere - 1
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2006
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for January 19-25, 2007
January sees a peak of sporadic activity for the southern hemisphere while
rates seen north of the equator begin a steady downward turn that continues
throughout the first half of the year. The sporadic activity is good for
both hemispheres, but not as good as it was for northern observers in
December. Once the Quadrantids have passed the shower activity for January
is very quiet.
This week the moon reaches its new phase on Friday January 19th. At this
time it lies near the sun and is not visible at night. As the week
progresses the waxing crescent moon will enter the evening sky but will set
long before the more productive morning hours arrive. The estimated total
hourly rates for evening observers this week is near three for those viewing
from the northern hemisphere and four for those located south of the
equator. For morning observers the estimated total hourly rates should be
near thirteen for observers north of the equator and fifteen for those
observers viewing from the southern hemisphere. These rates assume that you
are watching from rural areas away from all sources of light pollution. 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 listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning January 20/21. 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. This method 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.
These showers are expected to be active this week:
The Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 08:52 (133) +16. This area
of the sky lies in eastern Cancer, two degrees southeast of the fourth
magnitude star Delta Cancri. This radiant is best placed near 0100 local
standard time 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 for observers located south of the equator. With
an entry velocity of 30 km/sec., the average Antihelion meteor would be of
medium-slow speed.
The Coma Berenicids (COM) peaked near December 20 with an average ZHR of
five. Rates have now fallen to less than one per hour no matter your
location. The current location of this radiant is 13:28 (202) +13. This area
of the sky is located in northern Virgo, five degrees northeast of the third
magnitude star Vindemiatrix (Epsilon Virginis). These meteors are best seen
near 0500 local standard time when the radiant lies highest above the
horizon. At 65 km/sec. the Coma Berenicids will usually produce meteors of
swift velocity.
Sporadic rates have passed the late year plateau for observers located in
the northern hemisphere. One would expect to see perhaps thirteen random
meteors during the last hour before dawn from rural observing sites. During
the first dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps three random
meteors can be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night
progresses so rates seen near midnight would be near eight per hour.
Sporadic rates seen from the southern hemisphere are near the first of two
annual maximums. One would expect to see perhaps fifteen random meteors
during the last hour before dawn from rural observing sites. During the
first dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps four random
meteors can be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night
progresses so rates seen near midnight would be near nine per hour.
Antihelion (ANT) - 08:52 (133) +16
Northern Hemisphere - 3 Southern Hemisphere - 2
Coma Berenicids (COM) 13:28 (202) +13
Northern Hemisphere - >1 Southern Hemisphere - >1
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2006
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for January 12-18, 2007
January sees a peak of sporadic activity for the southern hemisphere while
rates seen north of the equator begin a steady downward turn that continues
throughout the first half of the year. The sporadic activity is good for
both hemispheres, but not as good as it was for northern observers in
December. Once the Quadrantids have passed the shower activity for January
is very quiet.
This week the moon wanes from a last quarter phase and will be a day before
new at the end of the period. Some slight lunar interference will occur this
weekend from the waning crescent moon but this can been easily overcome be
viewing in a direction away from the moon. By early next week the moon will
not be a factor at all. The estimated total hourly rates for evening
observers this week is near four no matter your location. For morning
observers the estimated total hourly rates should be near fifteen no matter
your location. These rates assume that you are watching from rural areas
away from all sources of light pollution. 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 listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning January 13/14. 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. This method 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.
These showers are expected to be active this week:
The Antihelion (ANT) radiant is now centered at 08:24 (126) +17. This area
of the sky lies in central Cancer near the dim star Theta Cancri. This
radiant is best placed near 0100 local standard time when it lies on the
meridian and is highest in the sky. Rates at this time should be near two
per hour as seen from the northern hemisphere and one per hour for observers
located south of the equator. With an entry velocity of 30 km/sec., the
average Antihelion meteor would be of medium-slow speed.
The Coma Berenicids (COM) peaked near December 20 with an average ZHR of
five. Rates have now fallen to less than one per hour no matter your
location. The current location of this radiant is 13:08 (197) +15. This area
of the sky is located in eastern Coma Berenices just two degrees south of
the fourth magnitude star Alpha Comae Berenices. These meteors are best seen
near 0600 local standard time when the radiant lies highest above the
horizon. At 65 km/sec. the Coma Berenicids will usually produce meteors of
swift velocity.
Sporadic rates have passed the late year plateau for observers located in
the northern hemisphere. One would expect to see perhaps fourteen random
meteors during the last hour before dawn from rural observing sites. During
the first dark hour after the end of evening twilight, perhaps four random
meteors can be seen per hour. Sporadic rates increase as the night
progresses so rates seen near midnight would be near nine per hour. Sporadic
rates seen from the southern hemisphere are near the first of two annual
maximums. One would expect to see approximately the same rates that are
visible from the northern hemisphere.
Antihelion (ANT) - 08:24 (126) +17
Northern Hemisphere - 2 Southern Hemisphere - 1
Coma Berenicids (COM) 13:08 (197) +15
Northern Hemisphere - >1 Southern Hemisphere - >1
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2006
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Meteor Activity Outlook for January 5-11, 2007
January sees a peak of sporadic activity for the southern hemisphere while
rates seen north of the equator begin a steady downward turn that continues
throughout the first half of the year. The sporadic activity is good for
both hemispheres, but not as good as it was for northern observers in
December. Once the Quadrantids have passed the shower activity for January
is very quiet.
During this period the moon reaches its last quarter phase on Thursday
January 11. During this entire period the moon will rise during the evening
hours and will interfere with observing during the most productive morning
hours. The sources of meteors listed below are active during this period but
will be difficult to observe this week. If your sky is transparent and the
limiting magnitude exceeds +5.0, then you may be able to achieve some
success. The estimated total hourly rates for evening observers this week is
near three no matter your location. For morning observers the estimated
total hourly rates should be near five no matter your location. These rates
assume that you are watching from rural areas away from all sources of light
pollution. 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 this week due to
intense moonlight.
The radiant positions listed below are exact for Saturday night/Sunday
morning January 6/7. 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. Using this method 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.
Antihelion (ANT) - 07:56 (119) +20
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - <1
Coma Berenicids (COM) 12:44 (191) +18
Northern Hemisphere - 1 Southern Hemisphere - <1
*For a detailed explanation on the different classes of meteor showers and
other astronomical terms, please visit:
http://www.amsmeteors.org/showers.html#X2006
Clear Skies!
Robert Lunsford
ALPO Meteors Section Coordinator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-