Astronomy lovers have been spoiled this month. Several spectacular events have taken place in recent weeks, such as the meteor shower in the Taurids (North and South) and the Leonids. In addition to these astronomical events, the world witnessed the lift-off of a NASA super rocket, with the start of the Artemis 1 mission. But as November is coming to an end, one last meteor shower will be on display very soon!
Discover our latest podcast
An unknown comet
As you know, a meteor shower is associated with a comet, which, as it passes close to Earth, rubs a large amount of cometary dust against our atmosphere. During this phenomenon, this dust and debris heat up and give us the impression of shooting stars when we observe it from the surface of our planet.
We know and study many comets, so we are able to predict the arrival of several meteor showers. For example, we know that the Leonid shower is associated with the comet Tempel-Tuttle. In the case of the Alpha Monocerotid meteor shower, on the other hand, the associated comet is officially undetermined. Still, it's suspected to be 1943 W1, otherwise known as the van Gent-Peltier-Daimaca comet.
When to observe this astronomical event?
We are not sure of the name of its comet, but that does not mean that we do not know anything about this meteor shower. Indeed, the Alpha Monocerotides are active from 15 to 25 November. Its peak is scheduled for the night of 21-22 November.
To observe it, you will have to look towards the constellation of the Unicorn. However, you should not expect a show worthy of the Perseids. About 5 meteors can be expected 'only'.
