Which choice best replaces the single quoted portion in the sentence (reproduced below) to suggest that, for a time, people were completely caught up with news of the Leonid meteor shower?

While "affected" implies a change or influence due to the meteor shower, it lacks the connotation of active engagement or excitement. This choice does not convey the intensity of interest or the sense of being captivated, which is essential to accurately reflect how people responded to the news.

"Involved" suggests participation or engagement, but it does not capture the emotional intensity or fascination that "enthralled" conveys. Being involved can imply a more neutral or less passionate state, failing to illustrate the level of excitement people felt regarding the meteor shower.

"Worried" implies a sense of concern or anxiety, which is contrary to the context of being captivated by a spectacular natural event. This choice does not fit the positive and enthusiastic response expected when discussing people's feelings about the Leonid meteor shower.