Tonight, the Geminid meteor shower, one of the year’s most spectacular celestial events, will light up the night sky.

With up to 150 meteors per hour streaking through the atmosphere at speeds of 70 kilometers per second, it promises a breathtaking show.

You don’t need any special equipment—just find a dark spot, let your eyes adjust for 30 minutes, and enjoy the display.

For the best view, focus near the Gemini constellation, but don’t look directly at it to catch the brightest meteors with the longest trails.

What is the Geminid meteor shower?

Unlike most meteor showers, the Geminids do not originate from a comet, but from an asteroid called 3200 Phaethon.

It was first observed in 1862, much later than other meteor showers like the Perseids (36 AD) and the Leonids (902 AD). Considered the most consistent and active shower, the Geminids produce up to 120 to 160 meteors at its peak. 

When can you see the Geminid meteor shower?

The Geminid meteor shower is active between November 24 and December 24. However, the best time to see it is during its peak on December 13 and 14. 

What time is best to see the Geminid meteor shower?

Be in position by 2 am local time, when the shower’s radiant (the constellation it appears to emanate from) is at its highest point in the sky.

This year, the meteor shower’s peak coincides with a 90% illuminated waxing gibbous moon, so do check your local moonrise times – the lesser the moonlight, the higher your chance of seeing the Geminid meteor shower in its full glory. 

Also read: Map: Spiking hotspots in and around Pretoria

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