This Friday, stargazers around the world are in for a celestial treat as the Geminid meteor shower reaches its peak. Known for its consistency and bright meteors, the Geminids are often hailed as the most reliable meteor shower of the year.
“Each year, the Geminid meteor shower is active roughly from December 4 to 20, with a zenith hourly rate generally stable around 150 during its peak,” explained Wang Kechao from the Purple Mountain Observatory, Chinese Academy of Sciences. “It is often regarded as the most consistent meteor shower of the year, never disappointing astronomy enthusiasts who wait for it. This is how it got its nickname as ‘the most reliable meteor shower.'”
The Geminids are unique among meteor showers as they originate from an asteroid rather than a comet. This asteroid, named 3200 Phaethon, orbits the sun and leaves behind a trail of debris that the Earth passes through each December. When these particles enter Earth’s atmosphere, they burn up, creating bright streaks across the night sky commonly referred to as “shooting stars.”
Despite the nearly full moon expected during this year’s peak, which may reduce visibility, the Geminids are visible across the globe due to their nearly 24-hour broad maximum. NASA notes that while moonlight might wash out some of the fainter meteors, the brighter ones should still be visible.
No special equipment is needed to enjoy the meteor shower. The best viewing times are typically between midnight and the pre-dawn hours. For optimal viewing, find a dark location away from city lights, and allow your eyes about 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness.
For those who may miss the Geminids, the Ursid meteor shower will peak around December 22, offering another opportunity to witness nature’s night show.
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Save the date! Spectacular Geminid meteor shower to light up the sky
cgtn.com
