SPA Meteor Section

Introduction

Most people at some time or other have probably seen a "shooting star" dash across part of the sky. This of course is not really a star at all, but is a minute speck of cosmic material called a meteoroid, which "burns up" during its passage through the Earth's atmosphere producing the streak of light which we call a meteor. This web page describes what meteors are and also the aims of the section.

Leonid meteor by Paul Sutherland

The general function of the Section is to make good astronomers, and in particular meteor observers, of its members. By following the instructions and carrying out observations as detailed later, you will be doing some original work, which is the best way to learn. Never be afraid to ask questions if you are not certain what to do or want more information on any meteor-related topics, and do not worry about your inexperience or making mistakes when you start out. Every experienced observer made - and still occasionally makes - mistakes; that is how they gained their experience. Regular observing at all times of year, NOT just near the maxima of major meteor showers, is how to become a better meteor watcher!

The section's Director is Alastair McBeath, and the Assistant Director is Shelagh Godwin. Click the links below to read a brief profile of them, and also a summary of Shelagh's talk at the SPA Convention in October 2005.

Meteor Section Director/Assistant Director Profiles
Summary of the Meteor Section presentation at the SPA Convention (includes an introduction to meteor watching)

All observers, whether veteran or novice, are to some extent unreliable, as two people at the same place seeing the same meteor can (and will) give totally conflicting reports of the event while still believing that their own is the correct version! Discussing the meteor between members of an observing group is definitely not to be recommended. The important thing is to try to record the details that actually happened, and this is not always the same as what you thought you saw. Remember, practice makes perfect!