Moscow Astronomical Observatory predicts Leonids meteor storm in 2099

Astronomers at the Moscow Astronomical Observatory have announced that the annual Leonids meteor shower could evolve into a massive meteor storm in the year 2099. Experts note that during a similar event in 1966, observers recorded approximately 10,000 meteors per hour, averaging two to three meteors per second.

The prediction is based on the orbital path of Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, the parent body of the meteor stream. While the Earth is not expected to collide with the comet's densest dust clouds until 2099, scientists anticipate increased activity in the intervening years. Between 2031 and 2064, the meteor rate may rise to roughly 100 meteors per hour.

For the upcoming peak on November 18, scientists expect a more modest rate of about 15 meteors per hour. The Leonids, which occur annually between November 6 and November 30, are among the fastest meteor showers, with speeds reaching 71–72 kilometers per second. They can be viewed with the naked eye from midnight until pre-dawn hours.