Where in the sky do meteors come from at any arbitrary point in the year?

In summary, the conversation discusses different meteor showers and how they are named after the constellation they appear to come from. The question is raised about whether the "exit point" of meteors can be traced back to confirm their origin from that constellation. The response mentions that known meteor showers occur when the Earth passes through the path of expired comets, leaving behind a trail of debris. The question is then clarified to ask if the apparent point of origin is predictable and how to determine its location.
  • #1
dotancohen
106
1
I understand that there are different meteor showers at different times of year, and that they are named for the constellation from which the meteors seems to come from (to an Earth-based observer). Does the point of "exit" for arbitrary meteors all year follow a pattern or a great circle on the celetial sphere?

For instance, if in September a view thinks that he may have seen a meteor, come he follow the vector of travel in reverse to confirm/deny that it originated from the expected "exit spot" and therefore confirm/deny the he did in fact see a meteor?

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
The known meteor showers occur when the Earth passes through or near the path of expired comets. Comets leave in their wake a trail of debris that continues to orbit along the path of the comet.
 
  • #3
Thank you Integral, I know that. The question was if the apparent point of origin (such as the Perseus constellation for the Perseids) is in a predictable location as per the time of year, and how to know that location if such.

Thanks.
 

Related to Where in the sky do meteors come from at any arbitrary point in the year?

1. Where do meteors come from in the sky?

Meteors come from outer space, specifically from debris left behind by comets or asteroids.

2. Do meteors appear in the same part of the sky every year?

No, meteors can appear in different parts of the sky depending on the orbit of the comet or asteroid they originate from.

3. Can meteors be seen at any time of the year?

Yes, meteors can be seen at any time of the year, but certain meteor showers occur on specific dates as the Earth passes through the debris trail of a comet or asteroid.

4. Why do meteors appear to come from a single point in the sky?

This is because the Earth's atmosphere acts as a barrier, causing the debris to burn up and create a streak of light in the sky. The point from which the meteors appear to radiate is called the "radiant" and is determined by the direction of the comet or asteroid's orbit in relation to the Earth's orbit.

5. How can I determine when and where to see a meteor shower?

You can use a star chart or a meteor shower calendar to determine the date and time of a meteor shower, as well as the location of the radiant in the sky. It is also important to find a dark, open area away from light pollution for the best viewing experience.

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