Final meteor shower of the year is set to dazzle the skies. If you missed the strongest Geminid meteor shower, here’s your chance. The Ursid meteor shower will offer a spectacular celestial display this December.
The Ursids will peak overnight on December 21 and 22. The timing aligns perfectly with the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. While the Ursids produce fewer meteors than the Geminids, they’re still impressive. Bright fireballs could streak across the sky, making the shower worthwhile.
When and Where to Watch the Ursids
According to EarthSky.org, the Ursid meteor shower will be active from December 17 to 26. Peak activity is expected on December 21-22, with about 10 meteors per hour. The best views will be just before dawn, as the radiant reaches its highest point. The radiant — the point where meteors appear to originate — is in Ursa Minor. This constellation, also known as the Little Dipper, stays visible all night in the Northern Hemisphere.
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Moonlight Challenges and Best Viewing Tips
The waning gibbous moon could interfere with visibility this year. On December 21-22, the moon will be between 52% and 62% full, peaking around 6 a.m. local time. However, it rises just before midnight, giving a window for viewing. To see the most meteors, head to a dark location away from city lights and look up around midnight.
The Science Behind the Ursid Meteor Shower
The Ursids come from debris left by Comet 8P/Tuttle, which orbits the sun every 13.6 years. As Earth passes through this debris, small particles burn up in our atmosphere, creating the meteor shower. No equipment is needed to enjoy this event — simply find a clear, dark sky and watch the magic unfold.
If you’re planning ahead, mark your calendars for the Quadrantid meteor shower. It will peak on January 2-3, 2025. Until then, don’t miss the chance to enjoy the final meteor shower of the year.
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