The Leonids have a 'traditional' node time in 2008 on November 17 around 09h UT, though the bright waning Moon close to the constellation of Leo will be a severe problem for observers on any location. In addition to the the traditional maximum, Jérémie Vaubaillon predicts two potential stream encounters, centred on November 17 at 01h32m UT (1466 trail; ZHR ~25-100?) and November 18 at 21h38m UT (1932 trail; ZHR ~20?). Mikhail Maslov proposed that the shower may show a peak with ZHRs ~130 at 00h22m UT on November 17, with meteors brighter than average. Observations around these times, as well as any other moments, would be of great value to test and improve the prediction models. An automated ZHR graph is made available for this shower. Please refer to the short-term meteor activity outlook and the 2008 shower calendar for observing information.

The Taurids are part of the meteoroid stream complex associated with Comet 2P/Encke. Studies by David Asher have indicated that increased Taurid fireball rates may result from a “swarm” of larger particles within the Taurid complex, and he suggested such “swarm” return might possibly occur in 2008, albeit rather uncertain. The most recent swarm encounter, in 2005, produced a lot of very brilliant fireballs and enhanced ZHRs of ~10-15, that persisted from about October 29 to November 10. Observations of the Taurids are highly encouraged and results of visual work are made available in automated ZHR-graphs.

Please submit your observations using the electronic form, which will get processed directly into a live ZHR profile.

The Orionids produce fast moving meteors linked to the comet 1 P/Halley. It is a middle-sized shower visible between early October and the first week of November. They usually peak around solar length 208° or October 21st with rates up to ZHR ~25. In 2006 and 2007 however, the maximum went up to more than twice this value, with lots of bright meteors. Theoretical simulations show that this enhanced activity is likely to repeat this year. Unfortunately for observers, a waning gibbous moon at last quarter on October 21 significantly disturbs the observations. Nevertheless, given the exceptional activity of the stream, observations are still worthwhile and remain highly appreciated.