Stargazers around the world are in for a celestial treat as the Geminid meteor shower is set to peak this Friday. Renowned for its consistency and brilliance, the Geminids are often referred to as “the most reliable meteor shower,” captivating astronomy enthusiasts annually.
“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 at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. “It never disappoints those who wait for it.”
Unlike most meteor showers that originate from comets, the Geminids are one of the few that stem from asteroid debris, specifically from the sun-orbiting asteroid 3200 Phaethon. This unique origin contributes to the vibrant and plentiful meteors that grace the night sky.
The Geminids are visible across the globe due to their nearly 24-hour broad maximum. However, this year’s peak occurs under a nearly full moon, which may reduce visibility. Despite this, NASA encourages enthusiasts to find a dark spot away from city lights to maximize their viewing experience.
For the best chance to witness the spectacle, it’s recommended to gaze skyward between midnight and the pre-dawn hours. Clear, cloudless skies and the absence of bright moonlight enhance the visibility of these “shooting stars.”
Meteor showers like the Geminids occur when Earth passes through trails of debris left by celestial bodies. As these rocks enter Earth’s atmosphere, they heat up due to air resistance, causing the air around them to glow and creating the characteristic fiery tails that streak across the sky.
The excitement doesn’t end with the Geminids. Later this month, the Ursid meteor shower is expected to peak around December 22, offering another opportunity for skywatchers to enjoy the wonders of the night sky.
Reference(s):
Save the date! Spectacular Geminid meteor shower to light up the sky
cgtn.com
