Australian stargazers are being treated to a dazzling celestial event this week, with two sister meteor showers flashing across night skies.
From September to November each year, the Taurids produce an incredible cosmic display reminiscent of a flurry of fireballs.
Now, stargazers will have a second chance to catch a glimpse of the rare phenomenon when the Northern Taurids light up the hemisphere on November 12.
What are the Northern Taurids
The Taurids originate from the debris of Comet Encke, which orbits the sun.
At about 104,000 km/h, when the asteroids collide with Earth’s atmosphere they break apart and create a fiery spectacle.
The Northern Taurids share a similar name to the Southern Taurids because they both appear to originate at separate points in the constellation Tauras.
When are the Northern Taurids?
The meteor shower will peak on November 12, between midnight and predawn.
The dazzling display comes just a week after the peak of the Southern Taurids.
How and when to watch the Taurid meteor shower?
The Northern Taurids will be visible across every state and territory.
They are best to view under dark skies and away from city lights, rural areas will have the best opportunity for sightings.
The meteor shower is also best seen when the moon wanes, as the Taurids can sometimes be obstructed by moonlight.
Australians will still be able to watch both showers into December, but keep in mind they won’t be at their brightest.
