The Geminid meteor shower, this year’s brightest comet display, will peak on Friday and Saturday. It is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular and reliable annual meteor showers, typically reaching its peak in mid-December each year.
About Geminid meteor shower
The Geminid meteor shower is active from November 19 to December 24, 2023, with its peak activity occurring on December 14. During this peak, approximately 120 meteors can be seen per hour, traveling at speeds of 79,000 mph (127,000 kph), or 22 miles per second (35 kilometers per second).
First observed in the mid-1800s, the Geminid shower initially produced modest displays, with only 10 to 20 meteors visible per hour. Over time, however, the Geminids have grown into one of the most prominent meteor showers of the year. Under optimal conditions, up to 120 Geminid meteors can be observed per hour at its peak, with meteors known for being bright, fast, and typically yellow in color.
When to watch
The Geminid meteor shower is best viewed during the night and predawn hours, with visibility worldwide due to its nearly 24-hour peak. It provides an excellent opportunity for younger viewers, as the shower begins around 9 or 10 pm.
Tips for watching
To see the Geminids, choose a location away from city or street lights. Dress warmly for winter temperatures and bring a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair. Lie flat on your back with your feet facing south and look up to take in as much of the sky as possible. After about 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adjust, and meteors will start to appear. The show lasts until dawn, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the spectacle.
Origin of meteors
The Geminid meteor shower, known for its bright streaks of light, originates from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, not a comet like most meteor showers. Earth annually passes through debris trails left by orbiting comets and asteroids. These particles burn up in Earth’s atmosphere, creating the visible meteors.
3200 Phaethon orbits the Sun every 1.4 years. Scientists think it may be a “dead comet” or a “rock comet” because of its orbit. However, it lacks a cometary tail and resembles a rocky asteroid, making its classification uncertain. The Geminid meteoroids, particles from Phaethon, are denser than typical cometary dust.
The Infrared Astronomical Satellite discovered 3200 Phaethon on October 11, 1983. Astronomer Fred Whipple identified it as the Geminids’ source. The asteroid’s name, Phaethon, comes from the Greek mythological figure who drove the Sun-god Helios’ chariot. This is due to the asteroid’s close proximity to the Sun. Phaethon’s diameter is only 3.17 miles (5.10 kilometers).
The Geminids appear to originate from the constellation Gemini, hence the shower’s name. This point is called the radiant. While Gemini helps locate the shower, the meteors are visible across the whole night sky.
