Another fall meteor shower is underway and peaks this weekend. The Leonid meteor shower is named after the constellation Leo. It’s the radiant point in the sky where they appear to originate from. Leo the Lion doesn’t rise until after midnight, so that’s the best time to try to view this shower.

Like with every other meteor shower, the light pollution in the tristate area will affect viewing conditions, as well as the weather. The sky will clear nicely by Saturday night – so give it a try! If you don’t have any luck viewing, no worries, this shower lasts until Dec. 2.

Comet Tempel-Tuttle is the parent comet responsible for the shower. Earth will be orbiting through the stream of debris left behind from just over 20 years ago. This shower is known for fast, bright and even colorful meteors. There could also be a few fireballs and Earth-grazers in there as well. Earth grazers are meteors that stream close to the horizon and produce colorful trails. If you happen to have access to a dark, open horizon, give this a try.

Next up are the Geminids in December. Happy stargazing and don’t forget to make a wish.