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Texas Night Sky: Mysterious Flashes Possible Nov. 16-18
Austin, TX — Strange flashes, fast moving streaks and occasional brilliant fireballs could become more noticeable in Texas' night sky as Tuesday, Nov. 17, approaches. Some may appear suddenly and disa
By Lena Wood · 2026-11-09T12:14:22.521Z
Austin, TX — Strange flashes, fast moving streaks and occasional brilliant fireballs could become more noticeable in Texas' night sky as Tuesday, Nov. 17, approaches. Some may appear suddenly and disappear within seconds, leaving observers wondering what crossed overhead.
According to EarthSky , the annual Leonid meteor shower is underway, with activity building toward a predicted peak on Nov. 17. The display occurs as Earth passes through debris left behind by Comet Tempel Tuttle.
Why Strange Flashes Could Appear With drones, aircraft and unfamiliar lights attracting attention, the Leonids offer another possible explanation for brief flashes in the sky.
Unlike aircraft or drones, meteors can streak across large portions of the sky in seconds before disappearing.
Leonid particles enter Earth's atmosphere at approximately 44 miles per second , producing bright streaks as they burn up. Occasionally, brighter meteors create dramatic flashes known as fireballs.
Under ideal dark sky conditions, observers could see 10 to 15 meteors per hour near the shower's peak. Actual sightings will depend on clouds, artificial lighting and visibility.
When Texas Residents Should Look Up The best viewing opportunities are expected between midnight and dawn Tuesday, Nov. 17, and Wednesday, Nov. 18.
A first quarter moon is expected to set around midnight, allowing darker skies during the early morning hours.
Residents in Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso and surrounding communities should seek open areas away from city lights.
Texas' Big Bend region, Davis Mountains, Hill Country and quieter rural counties may provide particularly favorable viewing locations when skies are clear.
The Leonids have produced spectacular meteor storms in 1833 and 1966, but no comparable storm is predicted for 2026 .
The shower remains active through Dec. 2.
For Texans who spot an unexpected streak of light next week, the explanation could be something far older than modern aircraft: a tiny fragment of comet debris making its final journey through Earth's atmosphere.