(meteorobs) Perseids Still Strong

[Skywayinc at aol.com]

Speaking of the Leonids . . . here is Jeremie's depiction of Earth's  
passage through 
the stream this year:
 
_http://www.imcce.fr/en/ephemerides/phenomenes/meteor/DATABASE/Leonids/BIN-t
out/Noeuds-Earth2009.jpg_ 
(http://www.imcce.fr/en/ephemerides/phenomenes/meteor/DATABASE/Leonids/BIN-tout/Noeuds-Earth2009.jpg) 
 
Now the big outburst (from dust ejected back in 1466) for ~21.5 UT on  
November 17 
is readily obvious on this graphic.  But take note that en route to  that 
particular debris field, that Earth
will apparently slide through the outer edge of another cloud of dusty  
material between
6 and 9h UT.  Obviously, this activity would not be as "prolific" as  what 
will occur 13 to 16 hours
later, but perhaps this will still translate into a pretty good surge of  
Leonid activity.
 
The time frame between 6 and 9h on November 17 highly favors central and  
especially
eastern North America.  
 
:)
 
And of course, the Moon is near New phase, meaning 
viewing circumstances are excellent.
 
Mark your calendars accordingly!
-- joe rao