If you’re a stargazer, then you know that meteor showers are one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders. These dazzling displays light up the night sky, leaving us in wonder and amazement. But which month has the most meteor showers? The answer might surprise you! In this guide, we’ll explore the world of meteor showers and uncover which month has the most spectacular displays. So, get ready to be amazed as we take a journey through the celestial heavens and discover the ultimate guide to meteor showers.
Meteor showers are celestial events that occur when the Earth passes through the debris left behind by comets and asteroids. The most spectacular meteor showers occur in August, when the Perseid meteor shower peaks. This annual event is caused by the Earth passing through the debris left behind by the comet Swift-Tuttle. During the Perseid meteor shower, stargazers can expect to see up to 100 meteors per hour, making it one of the most impressive meteor showers of the year. However, other months can also offer impressive meteor showers, such as the Lyrids in April and the Geminids in December. Regardless of the month, meteor showers are a fascinating natural phenomenon that should not be missed.
Understanding Meteor Showers
What are Meteor Showers?
Meteor showers are a celestial event that occurs when the Earth passes through a trail of debris left behind by a comet or asteroid. As the debris enters the Earth’s atmosphere, it burns up and creates a bright streak of light in the sky, often referred to as a shooting star. The number of meteor showers that occur each year is determined by the amount of debris left behind by comets and asteroids, and the Earth’s position relative to this debris.
Meteor showers can be spectacular displays in the sky, with dozens or even hundreds of meteors visible in a single hour. However, the number of meteors visible can vary greatly depending on the specific meteor shower and the conditions of the viewing location. Factors such as cloud cover, light pollution, and the phase of the Moon can all affect the visibility of meteor showers.
There are several well-known meteor showers that occur throughout the year, including the Perseids in August, the Geminids in December, and the Lyrids in April. Each meteor shower has its own unique characteristics and can be viewed from different locations around the world.
In addition to being a popular topic for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts, meteor showers have also been studied by scientists for their potential to provide insights into the composition and structure of comets and asteroids. By analyzing the chemical makeup of the debris left behind by meteor showers, scientists can gain a better understanding of the origins and evolution of these celestial bodies.
How are Meteor Showers Formed?
Meteor showers are celestial events that occur when the Earth passes through a cloud of debris left behind by a comet or asteroid. This debris is made up of small rocks and dust particles that are propelled into space at high speeds. When these particles collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, they heat up and burn up, creating the bright streaks of light that we see in the sky.
The number of meteor showers that occur each year depends on the location of the comet or asteroid that left the debris behind. Some comets and asteroids have orbits that bring them close to the Earth on a regular basis, resulting in frequent meteor showers. Other comets and asteroids have orbits that are less likely to intersect with the Earth’s orbit, resulting in fewer meteor showers.
The brightness and frequency of meteor showers can also vary depending on the time of year. This is because the Earth’s orbit around the Sun brings it closer to or farther away from the debris cloud at different times of the year. For example, the Perseid meteor shower, which occurs every August, is known for its bright and frequent displays because the Earth passes through the debris cloud left behind by the comet Swift-Tuttle at a time when the Earth is closest to the Sun.
In addition to the location and time of year, weather conditions can also affect the visibility of meteor showers. Clear skies and a dark environment are ideal for viewing meteor showers, as cloud cover and light pollution can obscure the view.
Types of Meteor Showers
Meteor showers are the streaks of light that appear in the sky when a meteoroid, a small rock or debris from space, enters the Earth’s atmosphere and burns up due to friction. These showers are usually named after the constellation from which they appear to originate. There are two main types of meteor showers: those caused by comets and those caused by asteroids.
Comet-Caused Meteor Showers
Comet-caused meteor showers occur when the Earth passes through the debris trail left behind by a comet. These trails contain a large number of small particles that burn up in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating the beautiful streaks of light we call meteor showers. The most famous comet-caused meteor shower is the Perseid meteor shower, which occurs every year in August.
Asteroid-Caused Meteor Showers
Asteroid-caused meteor showers occur when the Earth passes through the debris trail left behind by an asteroid. These trails contain a large number of small particles that burn up in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating the beautiful streaks of light we call meteor showers. An example of an asteroid-caused meteor shower is the Geminid meteor shower, which occurs every year in December.
Both comet-caused and asteroid-caused meteor showers can be spectacular, with the number of meteors visible in the sky increasing during their peak periods. However, the specific type of meteor shower will depend on the time of year and the specific constellation from which they appear to originate. By understanding the different types of meteor showers, one can better plan their viewing and enjoy the beauty of these natural phenomena.
The Best Months for Meteor Showers
Month-by-Month Guide
While meteor showers can occur throughout the year, some months are better than others for viewing these celestial spectacles. The following month-by-month guide provides a detailed overview of the best months to observe meteor showers and the specific events to look out for.
- January: The first month of the year kicks off with the Quadrantid meteor shower, which usually peaks around January 3rd. While this shower is not as well-known as others, it can produce some of the brightest meteors in the sky. The peak occurs just after midnight and lasts for several hours.
- February: Although there are no major meteor showers in February, the month does bring the Ursid meteor shower, which peaks around December 22nd. However, the Ursids can still produce some stunning displays in February, particularly on the 12th and 13th of the month.
- March: This month sees the return of the Quadrantid meteor shower, which peaks around March 22nd. This shower is known for its fast and bright meteors, and it can produce some stunning displays in the early morning hours.
- April: The Lyrid meteor shower, which peaks around April 22nd, is one of the oldest known meteor showers. It is also one of the most reliable, producing some stunning displays of bright and colorful meteors.
- May–* The Eta Aquarid meteor shower, which peaks around May 6th, is one of the most popular meteor showers of the year. It is also one of the brightest, with meteors often leaving glowing trails in their wake.
- June: The June solstice brings the annual appearance of the Beta Taurid meteor shower, which peaks around June 10th. This shower is known for its slow and bright meteors, which can be seen throughout the night.
- July: The Delta Aquarid meteor shower, which peaks around July 28th, is one of the most underrated meteor showers of the year. It produces some stunning displays of bright and colorful meteors, particularly in the southern hemisphere.
- August: The Perseid meteor shower, which peaks around August 12th, is one of the most famous meteor showers in the world. It is known for its bright and fast meteors, which can be seen throughout the night.
- September: The Orionid meteor shower, which peaks around September 22nd, is the final major meteor shower of the year. It produces some stunning displays of bright and colorful meteors, particularly in the early morning hours.
- October: Although there are no major meteor showers in October, the month does bring the Northern Taurid meteor shower, which can produce some stunning displays of bright and slow meteors.
- November: The November Leonid meteor shower, which peaks around November 17th, is one of the most reliable meteor showers of the year. It produces some stunning displays of bright and colorful meteors, particularly in the early morning hours.
- December: The Geminid meteor shower, which peaks around December 14th, is the most reliable meteor shower of the year. It produces some stunning displays of bright and colorful meteors, and it is the only meteor shower that can be seen in both the northern and southern hemispheres.
Factors Affecting Meteor Showers
The frequency and intensity of meteor showers are influenced by several factors, which can impact the overall experience of observing these celestial events. Some of the key factors that affect meteor showers include:
- Solar activity: The solar activity, including sunspots and solar flares, can interfere with the number of meteors visible in the sky. When the sun is more active, it can emit more electromagnetic radiation, which can distort the Earth’s magnetic field, making it difficult to observe meteor showers.
- Moon phase: The phase of the moon can also play a significant role in the visibility of meteor showers. During a full moon, the bright light can overpower the faint light of the meteors, making them difficult to see. However, during a new moon, the sky is darker, and the meteors are more visible.
- Earth’s position: The position of the Earth in its orbit around the sun can also affect the visibility of meteor showers. When the Earth is closer to the sun, the number of meteors visible in the sky increases, while when it is farther away, the number decreases.
- Time of year: The time of year can also impact the visibility of meteor showers. Some meteor showers are more active during certain times of the year, such as the Perseids in August or the Leonids in November.
By understanding these factors, observers can plan their meteor shower viewing experiences more effectively, increasing their chances of witnessing spectacular displays in the sky.
Tips for Watching Meteor Showers
Choosing the Right Location
Selecting the perfect location to observe meteor showers is crucial for an optimal viewing experience. Consider the following factors when choosing your observing site:
- Distance from Light Pollution: Ideally, choose a location that is far away from any sources of light pollution, such as cities or industrial areas. This will allow you to see the meteors more clearly and with greater detail.
- High Elevation: Meteors can appear to move more slowly at lower altitudes, so opt for a location with higher elevation to increase your chances of witnessing fast-moving meteors.
- Clear Weather: A clear, dark sky is essential for observing meteor showers. Check the weather forecast beforehand and choose a date and time when the skies are expected to be clear.
- Time of Night: Meteor showers are best viewed during the late evening and early morning hours, when the moon has set and the sky is at its darkest.
- Comfortable Temperatures: Make sure to dress warmly and choose a location with comfortable temperatures, as observing meteor showers can be a lengthy process.
- Accessibility: Choose a location that is easily accessible and offers a comfortable viewing experience, such as a chair or blanket.
By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you choose the right location to observe meteor showers and enjoy a truly spectacular display.
Time of Day and Weather Conditions
- Choose a Dark Location
- Clear Weather Conditions
- Late Summer Nights
- Avoid Moonlight
When it comes to watching meteor showers, timing is everything. The following tips will help you maximize your chances of seeing a spectacular display:
1. Choose a Dark Location
To increase your chances of seeing a meteor shower, find a location that is as far away as possible from any sources of light pollution. This can include areas outside of the city, or even just finding a spot in the countryside where the sky is clearer.
2. Clear Weather Conditions
Meteor showers are best viewed on clear, dark nights. If the weather is forecasted to be cloudy or there is a chance of rain, it may be best to wait until the next night to view the meteor shower.
3. Late Summer Nights
The late summer months are typically the best time to view meteor showers. This is because the Earth is closest to the orbit of the comet that produces the meteor shower, resulting in more meteors being visible in the sky.
4. Avoid Moonlight
The moon can be a major source of light pollution, making it difficult to see the meteors. Try to find a location where the moon is not visible in the sky, or wait until the moon sets to start watching the meteor shower.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of seeing a spectacular meteor shower display. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a first-time observer, these tips will help you make the most of your meteor shower viewing experience.
Equipment for Optimal Viewing
Optimal viewing of meteor showers requires a few essential pieces of equipment. First and foremost, a comfortable and secure viewing location is crucial. A blanket or a lawn chair can provide a comfortable sitting surface, while a sleeping bag or a pillow can help to ensure a good night’s sleep during the viewing session. It is also important to have a clear view of the night sky, so find an open area with minimal light pollution.
In addition to these essentials, some equipment can enhance the viewing experience. A telescope or binoculars can provide a closer look at individual meteors, while a star chart or a planetarium app can help to identify specific constellations and celestial objects. A camera or a smartphone with a good camera can capture photographs or videos of the meteor shower, but it is important to note that flash photography is not recommended as it can blind the viewer and spoil the experience for others.
Finally, dressing appropriately for the weather and the time of year is important. Depending on the location and time of year, temperatures can vary significantly, so dressing in layers and bringing warm clothing is advisable. It is also important to have adequate protection from the elements, such as bug spray or sunscreen, depending on the time of year.
Famous Meteor Showers and Their Histories
The Perseids
The Perseids are one of the most famous meteor showers that occur annually between July 17th and August 26th. The shower is named after the constellation Perseus, from where the meteors appear to originate. The Perseids are one of the most spectacular meteor showers due to their brightness and frequency.
The Perseids are associated with the comet Swift-Tuttle, which was discovered in 1862 by Lewis Swift and Horace Tuttle. The comet itself is too faint to be seen with the naked eye, but it leaves behind a trail of debris that creates the spectacular meteor shower.
The Perseids are known for their bright and colorful meteors, which can leave behind glowing trails in their wake. The meteors are also relatively fast, moving at a speed of around 37 miles per second.
One of the unique features of the Perseids is that they can be seen from virtually anywhere on the planet, making them a popular event for stargazers around the world. The peak of the Perseids usually occurs around August 12th, when the number of meteors visible in the sky is at its highest.
In addition to their scientific significance, the Perseids have also been the subject of artistic inspiration throughout history. Many artists have depicted the meteor shower in their works, including the famous painting “The Star Spangled Banner” by Francis Scott Key, which was inspired by the sight of a meteor shower.
Overall, the Perseids are a truly spectacular meteor shower that should not be missed by anyone interested in astronomy or stargazing.
The Geminids
The Geminids is a meteor shower that is associated with the constellation of the same name, Gemini. It is one of the most popular meteor showers and is known for its spectacular displays. The Geminids meteor shower is caused by the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, which is thought to have a rocky and icy composition.
This meteor shower is unique in that it produces a high number of bright and colorful meteors, which are visible even in the daytime. The Geminids meteor shower typically peaks in December, although it can also be visible in November and January. The best time to view the Geminids meteor shower is in the evening, after the moon has set, and during the early morning hours.
One of the most interesting aspects of the Geminids meteor shower is its origin. Unlike most meteor showers, which are caused by comets, the Geminids is caused by an asteroid. The asteroid 3200 Phaethon is a unique type of asteroid, known as a “rock comet,” because it is thought to have a composition that is similar to both rocks and ice.
The Geminids meteor shower is named after the constellation of Gemini, which is associated with the asteroid 3200 Phaethon. This meteor shower is particularly notable for its bright and colorful meteors, which are often described as having a “fireball” appearance.
Overall, the Geminids meteor shower is a spectacular event that is worth watching for anyone who is interested in astronomy. Whether you are a seasoned observer or a beginner, the Geminids meteor shower is sure to impress.
The Quadrantids
The Quadrantids is a famous meteor shower that occurs every year in January. It is named after the now-obsolete constellation Quadrans Muralis, which was located between the constellations Bootes and Corona Borealis. The meteor shower is known for its intense and brief peak, which usually lasts for only a few hours.
The Quadrantids are made up of debris from an asteroid called 2003 EH1, which was discovered in 2003. The asteroid is thought to be a fragment of a larger asteroid that broke apart millions of years ago. The debris from this asteroid burns up in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating the spectacular display of the Quadrantids.
One of the unique features of the Quadrantids is that they are known to be very bright and have a high percentage of red-colored meteors. This is because the debris from 2003 EH1 is rich in iron, which can create bright and colorful displays in the atmosphere.
The Quadrantids are not as well-known as some of the other meteor showers, such as the Perseids or the Geminids, but they are still a popular event for stargazers. They are best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in the early morning hours of January 3rd and 4th.
The Lyrids
The Lyrids are one of the oldest known meteor showers, with records of its observation dating back to 617 BC in China. It is caused by the dust and debris from the comet Thatcher, which was discovered in 1861 by an amateur astronomer named A.E. Thatcher. The comet itself is only active every 415 years, but its debris trail still produces a beautiful display of meteors every year in April.
The Lyrids are known for their fast and bright meteors, with some leaving glowing trails in their wake. They can be seen from anywhere in the world, but the best viewing is typically in the Northern Hemisphere. The peak of the Lyrids usually occurs around April 22nd, but it can last for several days before and after that date.
The Lyrids have been a subject of fascination for many cultures throughout history. The ancient Chinese believed that the meteors were signs of a celestial emperor’s blessings or punishments, while the Mayans believed that the meteors were messages from the gods. Even today, many people still find the Lyrids to be a breathtaking display of nature’s beauty and power.
The Eta Aquariids
The Eta Aquariids is one of the most popular meteor showers that occurs every year in May. It is named after the constellation Aquarius, from which the meteors appear to originate. This meteor shower is created by the dust and debris left behind by Halley’s Comet, which orbits the sun every 76 years.
The Eta Aquariids is known for its spectacular displays, with meteors streaking across the sky in bright, vivid colors. The peak of the meteor shower usually occurs around May 5th and 6th, but it can be seen for several days before and after that date. During this time, it is possible to see up to 60 meteors per hour, making it one of the most active meteor showers of the year.
One interesting fact about the Eta Aquariids is that it is one of the few meteor showers that is visible in both the northern and southern hemispheres. This means that people all over the world can enjoy the beauty of this meteor shower, regardless of their location.
However, it is important to note that the Eta Aquariids is best viewed in the early morning hours, just before dawn. This is because the moon will not be in the sky during these hours, making it easier to see the meteors against the dark sky. Additionally, it is recommended to find a location that is far away from any sources of light pollution, such as cities or streets, to get the best view of the meteor shower.
The Tau Herculids
The Tau Herculids is a meteor shower that occurs every year in the month of May. It is named after the constellation Hercules, which is where the meteors appear to originate from. The Tau Herculids is a relatively new meteor shower, having been first observed in the late 19th century.
One of the unique features of the Tau Herculids is that it is caused by a comet, rather than an asteroid. The comet responsible for the meteor shower is 15P/Finlay, which was discovered in 1886. The comet takes about 5.4 years to complete one orbit around the sun.
The Tau Herculids is known for its bright and colorful meteors, which can sometimes leave lingering trails in their wake. The meteor shower is also known for its unpredictable nature, with the number of meteors visible each year varying greatly. Some years have seen as many as 100 meteors per hour, while other years have seen only a few meteors per hour.
The best time to view the Tau Herculids is in the early morning hours, just before dawn. It is recommended to find a location that is far away from any sources of light pollution, such as a remote wilderness area or a high mountain peak. Binoculars or a telescope can be helpful in spotting the meteors, but it is also possible to view them with the naked eye.
Other Astronomical Events to Look Out For
Comets
Comets are another fascinating astronomical event that can be seen in the night sky. Unlike meteor showers, which are caused by the debris left behind by comets, comets themselves are icy bodies that orbit the sun. When comets get close to the sun, they heat up and release gases, which can create a visible tail of gas and dust.
There are several comets that can be visible to the naked eye, and they can appear in any month of the year. However, some comets are more famous than others, and they can attract a lot of attention from stargazers. For example, the comet Hale-Bopp was one of the brightest comets of the 20th century and was visible for more than a year.
Comets can be difficult to predict, as their orbits can be affected by the gravitational pull of planets and other celestial bodies. However, there are several resources available to help stargazers track the movements of comets and predict when they will be visible. For example, the website of the NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory provides information on the current location and visibility of comets.
Comets can be seen in any part of the sky, but they are most visible after sunset, when the sky is darker. They can appear as a small, bright point of light that moves slowly across the sky. The tail of a comet can be seen in the direction opposite to the sun, and it can be several degrees long.
Overall, comets are a fascinating astronomical event that can be seen in any month of the year. While they can be difficult to predict, there are several resources available to help stargazers track their movements and predict when they will be visible. Whether you are a seasoned stargazer or a beginner, watching a comet is a memorable experience that can leave you in awe of the beauty and mystery of the universe.
Eclipses
Eclipses are astronomical events that occur when one celestial body moves into the shadow of another. There are two types of eclipses: solar eclipses and lunar eclipses.
- Solar eclipses occur when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun’s light and casting a shadow on the Earth. These eclipses can only be seen from specific locations on the Earth’s surface and usually last for only a few minutes.
- Lunar eclipses occur when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon. These eclipses can be seen from anywhere on the Earth’s surface and usually last for several hours.
Eclipses are rare events that can be seen only from specific locations and only at certain times of the year. They are also difficult to predict and can only be seen from specific locations on the Earth’s surface.
It is important to note that eclipses are not meteor showers, they are different astronomical events. Meteor showers are caused by the debris of comets and asteroids entering the Earth’s atmosphere and burning up, while eclipses are caused by the positioning of celestial bodies.
Asteroids
Asteroids are small, rocky objects that orbit the sun. They are often referred to as “minor planets” and can be found throughout the solar system. Asteroids are usually composed of a mixture of rock, metal, and other materials, and range in size from tiny grains to large boulders.
While asteroids are not as visually striking as meteor showers, they can still be interesting to observe. Some asteroids are known to have moons, which can be observed as they orbit their parent asteroid. Additionally, some asteroids have been found to have unusual shapes and colors, making them unique objects of study.
Asteroids can also pose a potential threat to Earth. While the chances of an asteroid impacting Earth are relatively low, it is still important to monitor their movements and trajectories to ensure the safety of our planet. Efforts are underway to develop technology that could potentially deflect asteroids away from Earth if necessary.
In conclusion, asteroids are fascinating objects that can be studied for their unique characteristics and potential impact on Earth. While they may not be as visually stunning as meteor showers, they are still worth observing and understanding.
Recap of Key Points
- Meteor Showers: A meteor shower is a celestial event that occurs when the Earth passes through a comet’s debris trail, causing the appearance of shooting stars in the sky.
- Peak Times: Meteor showers typically have a peak time during which the maximum number of meteors can be seen. This peak time is influenced by the Earth’s position relative to the comet’s debris trail.
- Seasonal Variations: Meteor showers are not evenly distributed throughout the year. Some months are more favorable for observing meteor showers due to the Earth’s position in relation to the comet’s debris trail.
- Best Viewing Conditions: To get the best viewing experience, it is important to find a location with minimal light pollution, a clear sky, and a comfortable temperature. Ideally, one should watch meteor showers during the hours after midnight when the moon is below the horizon.
- Moon Phases: The lunar cycle can significantly impact the visibility of meteor showers. During a full moon, the bright light can overpower the fainter meteors, making them harder to see. Conversely, during a new moon, the dark sky provides optimal conditions for meteor viewing.
- Earth’s Rotation: Meteor showers can be observed in the northern hemisphere and the southern hemisphere, depending on the time of year and the Earth’s rotation. The Earth’s rotation also affects the time of day when meteor showers are visible.
- Other Astronomical Events: Apart from meteor showers, there are other astronomical events to look out for, such as eclipses, conjunctions, and transits, which can be equally captivating and provide unique observing opportunities.
Continuing the Journey: Exploring the Wonders of the Universe
There are many other astronomical events that can be enjoyed throughout the year, and each one offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the universe. From the vibrant colors of the aurora borealis to the stunning beauty of comets, there is always something new to discover in the night sky.
One of the most breathtaking sights in the sky is the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights. These electrically charged particles dance across the sky in a display of pinks, greens, and blues, and can be seen in the northern hemisphere, particularly in countries such as Canada, Norway, and Iceland. The best time to see the aurora borealis is during the winter months, when the days are shorter and the nights are longer.
Another fascinating astronomical event is the appearance of comets. These icy bodies, made up of dust and gas, can be seen streaking across the sky with tails of fire and ice. Some comets are more spectacular than others, and some even have names that have become part of popular culture, such as Halley’s Comet. The best time to see comets is during the spring and summer months, when the sky is clearer and the comets are more visible.
Meteors, also known as shooting stars, are another celestial event that can be enjoyed throughout the year. These tiny pieces of debris burn up in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a streak of light across the sky. The best time to see meteors is during the fall and winter months, when the Earth is closer to the debris left behind by comets and asteroids.
Overall, there are many other astronomical events to look out for throughout the year, each offering a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the universe. From the breathtaking beauty of the aurora borealis to the stunning displays of comets and meteors, there is always something new to discover in the night sky.
FAQs
1. What is a meteor shower?
A meteor shower is a celestial event that occurs when the Earth passes through a trail of debris left behind by a comet or asteroid. As the debris enters the Earth’s atmosphere, it burns up and creates a spectacular display of shooting stars.
2. When can I see meteor showers?
Meteor showers can be seen throughout the year, but the timing and intensity of each shower depend on the location of the comet or asteroid that produces the debris. Some of the most popular meteor showers include the Perseids in August, the Geminids in December, and the Lyrids in April.
3. Which month has the most meteor showers?
The month that has the most meteor showers is August, during the peak of the Perseids meteor shower. This shower is one of the most spectacular and reliable meteor showers, with up to 100 meteors per hour visible in the sky. However, other months such as December and April also have significant meteor showers that are worth watching.
4. How can I best observe meteor showers?
To observe meteor showers, find a dark location away from any sources of light pollution, such as a park or a remote wilderness area. Bring a comfortable chair and blanket, and dress warmly. Look towards the constellation from which the meteor shower originates, and enjoy the show. It’s also helpful to use a star chart or a smartphone app to identify the constellations.
5. Are meteor showers dangerous?
No, meteor showers are not dangerous. The debris from comets and asteroids burns up in the Earth’s atmosphere before it reaches the ground, so there is no risk of injury or damage. However, it’s important to exercise caution when observing meteor showers, especially if you’re driving or walking in the dark.