"The years 1998, 1999, and 2000 offer the last chance people on Earth will have for a century to see the most spectacular of all meteor showers, the Leonids. " "With the returning Leonids now reaching their peak of activity, The Heavens on Fire tells the story of meteors, and especially the Leonids, whose terrifying beauty established meteor science. Mark Littmann traces the history and mythology of meteors; profiles the fascinating figures whose discoveries advanced the field; examines the danger to Earth from meteors, comets, and asteroids; and explores how meteors have changed the course of life on Earth. He offers advice on how and where to make the best of the 1998, 1999, and 2000 return of the Leonids. "--Jacket.