Stargazers will be able to catch a glimpse of a meteor shower this week as the Earth travels through a cloud of comet debris.

       The meteor shower, also known as the Giacobinids, will last until Thursday but will peak on Tuesday and Wednesday.

       It comes after a rare scientific phenomenon known as “Steve” appeared in UK skies on Monday night.

       The relatively new scientific discovery – which stands for Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement – was spotted in Scotland and north-east England.

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       Little is known about the formation, but it only appears during auroras, which were also seen across England. It appears as a ribbon and lasts for 20 minutes to an hour before disappearing.

       What time will the Draconid meteor shower be visible tonight?

       While most other meteor showers are best seen in the early hours, the Draconids are best caught in the evening after nightfall.

       Dr Minjae Kim, a research fellow from the Department of Physics at the University of Warwick, said: “The shower’s radiant point is highest in the evening sky, making it a rare meteor shower best viewed after sunset rather than in the early morning hours.”

       The Draconid meteor shower takes place every year and comes from the debris of comet 21 P/ Giacobini-Zinner, which orbits around the Sun for six and a half years.

       The name Giacobinids comes from Michel Giacobini, who discovered the comet 21 P/Giacobini-Zinner from which the meteors come.

       The streaks seen in the night sky during the meteor shower can be caused by particles as small as a grain of sand.

       “During ideal conditions, observers may witness up to 10 meteors per hour,” said Dr Kim.

       Where is best to watch the Draconid meteor shower?

       Finding a location with an unobstructed horizon and very little light pollution is recommended for seeing the meteor shower.

       “The waxing crescent to first quarter moon phase will provide relatively dark skies, enhancing visibility,” said Dr Kim.

       “Seek out any areas with minimal light pollution, such as rural settings or parks away from city lights. Also, find a spot with an unobstructed view of the sky and a clear horizon. Allow your eyes about 20-30 minutes to adjust to the darkness for optimal night vision, which is always helpful.

       “You could bring a reclining chair or blanket to comfortably observe the sky. Remember, patience is key when stargazing. Settle in, relax, and let the wonders of the night sky unfold before you.”