The Geminids are considered one of the most prolific annual meteor showers, with up to 160 “shooting stars” per hour visible under the right conditions.
This year, the Geminid meteor shower will peak on the night of Saturday, December 13th to Sunday, December 14th (ET), so now is a good time to start planning.
The meteor shower consists of debris trailing the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, and the display is known for its brightness and color. As Earth passes through this track, the dust and tiny fragments in our atmosphere burn up, creating bright streaks across the night sky.
“Most Geminids burn up 30-40 miles above your head, but there is a very, very small chance that one of them will be large enough to produce a glowing fireball and leave small meteorites on the ground,” NASA says on its website. “So far we have not found a Geminid meteorite, but there is always hope.”
This year’s Geminid meteor shower actually began in the middle of last month and will last through December 24th, but most of the action will take place this coming weekend.
To witness the peak of the Geminids, cast your gaze to the eastern sky on Saturday evening, December 13th, into the early hours of Sunday morning.
This will give you the best view
– Check the weather forecast before you go because you want clear skies.
– Wear warm clothing and bring a hot drink and snacks if you plan to stay outside for a long time.
– Find a dark, clear place away from city lights. Try to find a spot with the greatest view of the sky that isn’t obscured by trees and buildings.
– Give your eyes at least 20 minutes to adjust to the dark environment.
– Lay out a blanket or grab a comfortable camp chair and face east.
– Be patient and you will spot the meteors flashing in the night sky.
