Geminid meteor shower reaches its peak this weekend, promising a dazzling display of shooting stars across the night sky. Known for being one of the brightest and most prolific meteor showers, the Geminids could produce up to 150 meteors per hour at their peak.
This meteor shower, which occurs annually from 4th to 20th December, is set to deliver its best show in the early hours of Saturday morning, 14th December. The best time to view the spectacle will be after midnight, with skies expected to be at their darkest just before dawn.
Unlike most meteor showers that originate from comets, the Geminids are caused by debris from an asteroid named 3200 Phaethon. As fragments from the asteroid enter Earth’s atmosphere at speeds of up to 241,000 km/h (150,000 mph), they vaporize, creating the bright streaks of light we see as meteors.
What makes the Geminids particularly special is their multi-coloured display. These meteors can appear in shades of white, yellow, green, red, and blue, thanks to elements like sodium and calcium present in the debris.
The good news is that no special equipment is needed to enjoy the Geminids—just your eyes and a bit of patience. To get the best view, follow these tips:
Find a Dark Spot: Head to a location away from streetlights and buildings to benefit from reduced light pollution.
Prepare for the Cold: Wear warm clothing, bring a blanket or camping chair, and consider taking a warm drink.
Look Towards Gemini: Focus your gaze near the constellation Gemini, home to the meteor shower’s radiant point near the bright star Castor. However, meteors will be visible across the entire night sky.
Be Patient: Allow time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness for the best viewing experience.
While up to 150 meteors per hour is theoretically possible, the bright light from a near-full moon will obscure some of the fainter meteors. Still, plenty of spectacular streaks should be visible.
Bill Cooke, lead for the Meteoroid Environment Office at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center said “The Geminids are one of only two meteor showers that can theoretically cause meteorites on the ground,” Cooke said. “The other is the Taurids.”
Most Geminids burn up 30-40 miles above your head, but there is a very, very small chance that one may be big enough to produce a brilliant fireball and leave small meteorites on the ground.
This evening’s forecast should see clouds clearing over Penrith providing an opportunity to spot the celestial fireworks display.
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