Whether you are wishing on a ‘shooting star’ or wondering about the likelihood of an asteroid ending life on earth, read on for more about the origins of comets, meteors and asteroids. Plus, discover how you can learn to observe asteroids for yourself.

15 awe-inspiring astronomy discoveries
Discover 15 incredible astronomy facts that might just change how you see the Universe
30 Jan 2023
How to see the green comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF)
Discover how to see this once-in-a-lifetime comet, which might be visible to the naked eye under dark skies.
Orionid meteor shower 2024: when and where to see it in the UK
What is it, when is it and where can I see the Orionid meteor shower this year?
Ursid meteor shower: When and where to see it in the UK
What is the Ursid meteor shower, when does it happen and how can I see it in 2024?
Lyrid meteor shower 2024: when and where to see it in the UK
What is it, when is it and where can I see the Lyrid meteor shower this year?
Perseid meteor shower 2024: When and where to see it in the UK
What is the Perseid meteor shower, when does it happen and how can I see it in 2024?
Meteor shower guide 2024
Want to see shooting stars? Check the key dates for major meteor showers in the UK in 2023 and 2024, and how to see them in the night sky
21 amazing astronomy events in 2021
From spectacular meteor showers to bold new space missions, Royal Observatory astronomers pick their night sky highlights.
Comets
What are comets and what are they made of?
Quadrantid meteor shower: when and where to see it in the UK
Your guide to seeing the Quadrantid meteor shower, among the strongest and most consistent meteor showers of the year