Meteor Observation 101

Asteroids are rocky objects that orbit the Sun, primarily between Mars and Jupiter. Smaller than planets, they are also known as planetoids or minor planets. Too small to be seen from Earth, astronomers observe them during stellar occultations when they pass in front of a star.

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) defines meteoroids as small, dense objects in the Solar System, larger than molecules but smaller than small asteroids. Due to their small size and low reflectivity (albedo), meteoroids are more difficult to detect than asteroids.

A meteor, or 'shooting star', is a bright streak of light caused by a meteoroid burning up as it enters Earth's atmosphere at high speed. They appear randomly, in any direction, at varying speeds, and their colors depend on the meteoroid's chemical composition.

Meteoroids that survive their fiery descent and reach Earth's surface are called meteorites. These larger rocks are sought after by 'meteorite hunters' and can have great scientific and monetary value.

Comets are icy bodies from the Oort Cloud or Kuiper Belt that orbit the Sun. As they near the Sun, their ice vaporizes, forming a bright coma and a tail pointing away due to solar wind. Their reflective tails create stunning displays visible from Earth.

Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through streams of dust and debris left behind by comets or sometimes asteroids. As Earth moves through these particles, they enter the atmosphere and burn up, creating the bright flashes of light we see as meteors.

Meteor showers happen annually because Earth regularly passes through the same debris streams left by comets or asteroids. These streams are predictable and occur at specific points in Earth's orbit, ensuring the meteor showers recur at the same time each year.

A shooting star is actually a meteor — a small piece of space debris that burns up upon entering Earth's atmosphere at high speeds. To spot one, find a dark location away from light pollution, and keep your eyes on the sky. Be patient, as meteors appear quickly and are brief.

Late night or pre-dawn offers the best view, as the observer's location faces the direction of Earth's motion through space. Depending on your location, check the timing of the meteor shower for peak activity to ensure the best view.

Check the meteor shower outlook

• • Radiant point: Locate where the meteors will radiate from in the sky.

  • ZHR rate: Check the Zenithal Hourly Rate (ZHR) to estimate the expected meteor activity.

  • Peak time: Identify the best time to observe the meteor shower for maximum visibility.

Check the Moon phase

• • A bright moon, such as a full or half moon, can outshine meteors. If this is the case, assess if it’s still worth staying up for the event.

Check the weather predictions

• • Safety: Ensure the weather is safe for observation.

  • Clear skies: Malaysian weather is unpredictable, but the west coast is usually drier during the northeast monsoon, while the east coast is clearer in the southwest monsoon.

  • Climate change, however, makes things less predictable, so check meteorology websites regularly to plan.

Scout the observation location

• • Choose a dark, open area away from city lights. Use the Light Pollution Mapping Tool to find ideal spots.

  • Safety first: Ensure the location is safe and has phone coverage for emergencies.
    
    
    Avoid 'green' interference

  • Seaside locations are great, but during certain times of the year, fishermen use 'green squid lamps' in specific areas, which can obstruct your view of meteors.

  • Check with locals and scout the area first—consider heading inland to avoid this.

Pack necessary items

• • Essentials: Bring food, beverages, and personal medication.

  • Use red light: For visibility without ruining your night vision, bring a small, portable red LED flashlight, headlamp, or a clip-on red filter for regular flashlights (available at outdoor shops or online).

  • Comfort: Pack a sleeping bag, mat or reclining chair to lie back and relax.

  • Protection: Don’t forget bug repellant.

  • Tools (optional): Power bank, binoculars or a telescope, camera with a tripod, and a sky simulation app (ensure it’s set to your location's coordinates and time).

Get enough sleep

• • Be well-rested so you can enjoy the experience without feeling too tired.

Clean up

• • Make sure to leave the area as you found it, ensuring no trash or debris is left behind.

Enjoy the moment

• • Appreciate the fleeting beauty of the meteor shower, and remember that each meteor is unique—a reminder that we are all made of stardust.