Geminid Meteor Shower Peaks This Weekend Despite Bright Moon
The annual meteor shower, known for its bright and colorful meteors, will be partially obscured by near-full moonlight but still offers a chance to spot fireballs.
- The Geminid meteor shower, originating from asteroid 3200 Phaethon, is peaking on the nights of December 13 and 14, with activity continuing until December 21.
- Under ideal conditions, up to 120 meteors per hour can be seen, but the bright moonlight this year will reduce visibility to approximately 10–20 meteors per hour.
- The best viewing times are late at night or early morning, ideally an hour before the moon sets, with the radiant point near the Gemini constellation.
- Observers are advised to find dark locations away from city lights, avoid looking at the moon, and allow 20–30 minutes for their eyes to adjust to the dark.
- The Geminids are unique for their asteroid origin, producing bright, colorful meteors, including occasional green and yellow fireballs visible to the naked eye.