This dazzling show started on 19 November and will continue through to 24 December, but it it's forecast to peak on the nights of 13 and 14 December.
The Geminid meteor shower is set to put on a stunning celestial show at its peak, producing up to 120 meteors per hour under ideal conditions - and, assuming a clear sky, this year is looking particularly promising. Astronomers say the Geminids are worth staying up late for, as they’re the year’s “most consistently prolific shower,” says the Washington Post.
This year, stargazers should have an especially good view of the shooting stars, because the moon will be in its waxing crescent phase. With very little moonlight, the bright, yellowish meteors will stand out against a dark backdrop under clear skies.
This year, tomorrow night will likely be the best time for everyone (whether you live in the northern or southewrn hemisphere) to see the meteors, says Sky & Telescope. But watching on the night of 14 December could also be a dazzling experience.
The most impressive phase of the shower will begin around 10 pm, no matter your time zone. But at 2 a.m. local time, the constellation Gemini will be highest in the sky, giving you the best view of the meteors. But you don’t need to look directly at this spot, called the radiant, to see the meteors. Instead, keep your gaze roving over the entire night sky.
When observing the Geminid meteor shower, the best strategy is to wrap up warm and use something like a sun-lounger to lie on. And allow about 20 minutes for your eyes to adapt to the darkness.
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