When fragments of a broken comet approach near Earth tonight, the chances of a meteorite storm are “right or wrong,” says NASA. However, astronomers are excited about the potential for a swarm of new shooting stars.
The agency advises sky observers to look at the constellation of Hercules tonight (May 30-31) to find clues to pieces of 73P / Schwassmann-Wachmann 3 (also known as SW 3). If the fragments reach the Earth correctly, they can create a fairly high spectacle in the atmosphere of our planet.
But NASA says it’s important to keep your expectations open. “We’re also excited about meteor showers,” the agency wrote in a blog post (opens in a new tab) on May 27th. “But sometimes events like this don’t live up to expectations; it happened with the alpha monocerotide rain of 2019, for example.”
At the time, the most optimistic predictions were that there could be an explosion of 400 to 1,000 meteors per hour, although the agency did warn in 2019 that the show could end up being a failure. That’s what ended up happening, so NASA is urging people to “channel their inner scientists and look beyond the headlines,” to make sure they’re ready for their night under the stars.
If you can’t see the event in person, you can watch the possible Herculid meteor storm online tonight with a live broadcast of the Virtual Telescope Project.
Related: 2022 Meteor Rain Guide: Dates and Viewing Tips
Some of the keys to the success of this rain include debris traveling at the right speed (not less than 220 mph or 321 km / h) and if the Earth passes through the thickest part of the debris stream.
By the way, images from NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope suggest that at least some fragments were moving fast enough in 2009, which is “one of the reasons astronomers were so excited,” the agency said.
Even if meteors affect our atmosphere, however, the Herculean tau will move slowly by meteorite standards and will generate a faint spectacle, NASA warned. Earlier, NASA astronomer Bill Cooke also called the possible meteor shower an “all-or-nothing event” in an agency blog post.
To get a better view of the meteor showers, go to the darkest place possible and lean back and relax. Your “meteorite hunting toolbox” should include a red flashlight, warm clothes, a hot drink, and a sun lounger. (Image credit: future) (opens in a new tab)
While there will be a new moon that will allow the best view possible, and Hercules will be high in the sky and away from the thick atmosphere on the horizon, the agency stressed that there are no guarantees. “We can only hope it’s spectacular,” NASA said.
You also need to consider your local weather forecast. The California coast between San Francisco and Portland, for example, should have clear skies in general, except for possible clouds inland from Humboldt Bay, the National Meteorological Service tweeted (opens in a new tab ) Sunday (May 29).
Independent meteorologist Mark Molnar on Sunday included a complete cloud cover map (opens in a new tab) forecast for the United States, showing clear skies forecast for most areas, apart from northern parts. west.
According to NASA, the rush hour to watch is around 1 a.m. on the east coast or 10 p.m. on the west coast. For the best possible vision, wear a lawn chair, stay away from artificial lights as much as possible, and allow your eyes at least 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness. If you have to use a flashlight or your phone, be sure to use a red filter to preserve your night vision.
The place to observe potential meteors would be the constellation of Boötes, just north-northwest of its bright star Arcturus. (Image credit: Getty Images) (opens in a new tab)
The agency suggests that people look at the constellation of Boötes, just north-northwest of its bright star Arcturus, to see shooting stars. (Your culture may use different names for these regions, for which we are using International Astronomical Union nicknames).
Don’t worry if the Herculean tau doesn’t end up happening as planned, as meteor showers occur quite frequently. August is a good bet, as the Perseids from August 11 to 12 are among the brightest events of the year. Check out our upcoming 2022 meteor showers to plan your next excursion.
If you want to photograph the Tau Herculid meteor shower or want to prepare your team for the next sky observation event, check out our best astrophotography cameras and the best astrophotography lenses. Read our guide to shooting meteors and meteor showers for more useful tips for planning your photo shoot.
Editor’s note: If you’re taking a stunning photo of the Herculean Tau meteor shower and want to share it with Space.com readers, send your photos, comments, and your name and location to spacephotos @ space. how.
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