November 18, 2004 - Catch a Falling Star

The Leonid Meteor Shower returns this week. Great anticipation is stirring around the world. Since the Moon, which will be only a thin crescent, will have set long before the constellation Leo starts to rise, the viewing should be very good. That is as long as it isn't cloudy like it was for me when I tried to view the Orionids this year and when I tried to see the last Lunar eclipse.

Experts predict a peak between November 16 and 19, so get out there tonight to watch for shooting stars.

Don't forget to make a wish.

• Learn when to expect more meteor showers as well as other astronomical events. Check out our Astronomical Events Calendar.
  
• Want to know more about meteorites? Try these two Backyard Experiments:
  • Collecting Meteorites
  • Making Craters.
• Some scientists believe that a meteor crashing into the earth caused the extinction of the dinosaurs.
• Forum Post of the Day:
  
  Subject: Sun fuel
  "From where does the Sun get Oxygen to burn so much of heat and light ???"
  adivecha
• Science fairs can be some of the most stressful events in a school career, for all involved. Or, they can be loads of fun and very educational. Make your science fair a success, check out these Top Science Fair Books.

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