The peak of the Northern Taurids meteor shower on November 11-12: when and where to watch

On the night of November 11-12, Russians will be able to see one of the most unusual meteor showers of autumn — the Northern Taurids. Despite its low intensity, it is capable of producing fireballs — slow and bright meteors that leave a colorful trail in the sky. Read about when and how best to observe "shooting stars" in the Izvestia article.

The Taurida Meteor Shower in 2025 — what is it

The Taurids are an annual meteor shower associated with the Encke complex. It is believed that it arose after the disintegration of a large cosmic body. As a result, Comet 2P was formed./Encke, several asteroids and meteor showers.

Astronomers divide the Taurids into two separate streams: Southern and Northern. The former originated directly from Comet Encke, and the latter from its sister asteroid 2004 TG10. Although the streams are interconnected, and their radiants (the place from which meteors visually fly out) are located at the same point, in the constellation of Taurus, their parent objects are different.

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Both the Southern and Northern Taurids are weak meteor showers. At the peak of their activity, only 5 to 10 "shooting stars" can be seen. However, the number of meteors is offset by the "quality" — the frequent appearance of fireballs. This is the name given to exceptionally bright meteors that occur when larger particles ranging in size from a few centimeters to tens of meters enter the atmosphere.

Are the Taurids dangerous for Earth

The parent body of the Southern Taurids, Comet Encke, is also the progenitor of the Taurid swarm, a group of celestial bodies that the Earth approaches every year. Previously, it was believed that it could pose a danger to our planet due to the large number of asteroids with a diameter of more than 1 km. Some scientists associated the famous Tunguska meteorite with the Taurid swarm, and in the media they were called "Doomsday asteroids."

However, modern research has shown that the number of large asteroids in the Taurid swarm is only 9-14, which is significantly less than the initial estimates. This greatly reduces the risk of such objects colliding with the Ground. Nevertheless, studies of comets Encke and Tauris are continuing, as they may contain important information about the early stages of the Solar System's development.

Northern Taurids in 2025 — when and at what time to watch

The Southern Taurids are active from September 20 to November 20. Their peak in 2025 occurred on the night of November 4-5. The Northern Taurids are observed from October 20 to December 10, and they will reach their peak on the night of November 11-12.

It is important to keep in mind that during the peak of the Northern Taurids, the Moon will be in its last quarter phase, which may interfere with observations. For optimal conditions, it is recommended to conduct observations before midnight on November 12, when the Earth's natural satellite has not yet appeared above the horizon.

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If the weather is clear, you can see up to five meteors per hour. However, given the partial intersection with the Southern Taurids, the actual number of meteors observed may be higher.

How to see the Northern Taurids Meteor Shower on November 11, 2025

Taurids are visible throughout the Northern hemisphere of the Earth, so residents of all regions of Russia will be able to enjoy them. Special observation equipment is not required, but to see as much as possible, it is important to prepare properly.

How to observe the Northern Taurids Meteor Shower:

• Check the weather forecast — you need clear skies to see the cars.;
• Maximize your view of the sky by choosing a location with an open horizon away from the glare of the city and other bright artificial light sources (lanterns, headlights, campfires, etc.);
• Use astronomical applications to determine the radiant flux;
• Allow your eyes to adjust to the dark for 20-30 minutes.;
• Look slightly away from the radiant for a better view of the long tails.;
• Use the red backlight and dark mode on your smartphone to maintain night vision.;
• dress warmly and take a thermos with a hot drink, it is also recommended to provide in advance the possibility of heating in the car or indoors.

Earlier, Izvestia reported on the features of the November supermoon.