The Leonid Meteors

Abstract

THOUGH the Leonid epoch of 1905 does not seem to have been marked by a great abundance of shooting stars, a magnificent aurora having unexpectedly taken the place on the evening of November 15 of the shower anticipated later on that night, yet it is probable that in the absence of moonlight and cloud the radiant in Leo would have been found to be more active than seemed to be the case. The phase of the moon renders the conditions for good observations more favourable in the present year, and it is probable that if the weather during the critical period turns out fine, Leonids will be observed in considerable numbers. In 1906 these meteors become due on the night of November 15. The anticipated display is connected by the nineteen-year period with the shower of November 14, 1868, and, like the latter, will be visible over both Europe and America. As calculated by the writer, the principal maxima take place on November 15 at 12h. 45m., 14h., 19h., and 21h. 40m., G.M.T. These maxima will therefore occur on the morning of November 16, the first two being visible here, while the remaining two, which represent by far the stronger portion of the shower, will fall to the lot of American observers.