Idaho is a wonderful place to be for stargazers. After all, the Gem State is home to some of the darkest skies in the nation, as we’ve talked about before. In less than one month we’ll have the perfect opportunity to soak up the glory of our dark skies with the arrival of this annual meteor shower. This specific event is highly anticipated every year since it’s considered one of the most stunning meteor showers that we are able to view. This wonderful display of meteors should be on every Idahoan’s bucket list so don’t you dare miss it this year!
The Leonid meteor shower takes place every year at some point during the month of November. This year the shower's peak is expected to take place on the night of November 17. If you are looking for the perfect event to indulge in Idaho's dark skies, this is it. You definitely don't want to miss this!
The Leonid meteor shower occurs every year when Earth crosses the orbital path of Comet Tempel-Tuttle. The comet litters a trail of debris behind it as it makes its way around the sun. When the Earth crosses the comet, debris from the trail turns into a fantastic display of meteors visible from the Earth's surface.
The great thing about the Leonid meteor shower is the fact that you can view it pretty much anywhere on Earth. However, it's best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere and Idaho just happens to provide the perfect conditions for viewing this stunning event.
It just so happens that Idaho is home to some of the darkiest skies in the nation. For instance, the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is located in the regions around Ketchum, Sun Valley, and Stanley and makes for an excellent stargazing spot. Also, Craters of the Moon was recently designated a Dark-Sky Park and also boasts some perfect stargazing conditions.
The peak of this year's Leonid shower is expected to take place from midnight to dawn on November 17 and 18. The best time to view the shower will be after the moon sets or during predawn hours. Trust us. This spectacular display is worth staying up for!
We count ourselves extremely lucky to live in a state where light pollution is at a low. This means that meteor showers are always an unparalleled experience that you don't want to miss. Plan on seeing the Leonids this year and take advantage of our fantastically dark skies.
What do you think? Will you be making special plans to see Idaho’s Leonid meteor shower? Check out this Amazing Timelapse Video Of The Milky Way Over Idaho for a little taste of the spectacular views that our night skies have to offer.
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