Meteor fall of the Southern Tauris in November 2025: where and when to watch

The Southern Taurids are not the densest, but one of the most spectacular meteor showers of the year. In 2025, experts predict increased activity and the possibility of a rare phenomenon — a swarm of fireballs. Izvestia investigated when it is better to observe the flow and why it is interesting to scientists.

What are the Southern Taurids?

The Southern Taurids are one of two meteor showers included in the so—called Tauride Complex. It got its name from the constellation of Taurus, from which, according to observations, meteors fly out.

The stream is associated with the short—period comet Encke (2P/Encke), whose tracks form an extensive cloud of particles, from dust particles to stone fragments. Every year in autumn, the Earth passes through this section of the orbit, and the particles, bursting into the atmosphere, burn up, creating slow bright flashes and often large fireballs in the sky.

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When and where to watch the Southern Taurides

Southern Taurids are traditionally active in late autumn. According to astronomers, in different years, the flow is observed from the end of September to November, and its peaks are smooth and elongated.

In 2025, experts note two periods of the greatest activity: the main background is expected in mid-October, and a separate maximum associated with the so-called swarm of fireballs (fireball swarm) is predicted for the night of November 4-5. These days, the likelihood of particularly bright cars will increase markedly.

For observations, it is recommended to choose locations away from urban glare and take into account the phase of the moon. The radiant of the stream is located in the constellation of Taurus, but meteors are visible all over the sky. Astronomers advise not to look directly at the radiant point, but at an angle of 30-50 degrees, so the flashes will be more noticeable.

The best time to observe is in the late evening and predawn hours, when the radiant rises above the horizon and the sky darkens. In 2025, the peak of activity will coincide with the phase of the full moon, so weak meteors will be less visible, and the main success factor will be clear weather and minimal clouds.

Experts recommend that those who plan observations prepare in advance: put on warm clothes, take a thermos with a hot drink and a folding chair. You can use apps or maps of the starry sky for orientation.

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How meteor showers appear

Meteor showers occur when comets consisting of ice, dust and rocks, approaching the Sun, lose some of their matter and throw particles into space. These particles eventually stretch along the comet's orbit, forming a kind of dust ribbon. When the Earth crosses this trail, the particles, flying into the atmosphere at a speed of tens of kilometers per second, heat up and flare up. This is how meteors appear in the sky: small particles produce thin streaks of light, and large ones produce bright fireballs with visible traces.

Of particular interest to scientists is the tauride complex, which contains both dust and more massive debris. In some years, their accumulation leads to an increased flow and the appearance of numerous fireballs.