Geminid meteor shower 2024: How to see the year's last big display of 'shooting stars' before it's too late
The Geminid meteor shower is upon us. Up to 120 "shooting stars" per hour will rain down on Earth during the shower's peak on Dec. 13 and 14, but a near-full moon may hamper viewing.
The most prolific meteor shower of the year, the Geminids, will peak overnight on Friday and Saturday (Dec. 13 and 14). The only annual meteor shower that scientists know for sure is caused by an asteroid rather than a comet, the Geminids meteor shower's peak night will this year be somewhat dampened by the appearance of a near-full moon.With December's full moon, the "Cold Moon," rising on Sunday, Dec. 15, it will already be above the horizon and shining brightly as the sun sets on Dec. 13. Skywatchers are unlikely to see as many of the (up to) 120 shooting stars per hour during the peak that many hope for — but this is still an event to be outside for around midnight.
For the best view, find a spot as far from artificial lights as possible, turn your back to the moon, and look up while allowing your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Meteor showers are best viewed with the naked eye; no skywatching binoculars or backyard telescopes necessary. (Due to the moon's bright glow, extensive travel for this shower is not advised.)
The strongest meteor shower of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the Geminids are often bright and intensely colored, according to the American Meteor Society. Active from Monday, Dec. 2 to Saturday, Dec. 21, the Geminids tend to be yellow, according to NASA, but may also be white and green.
