The Geminids

The peak of the annual Geminid Meteor Shower is upon us. The Geminids are probably the best meteor shower of the year in terms of actual number of meteors to be seen. Beginning this weekend and culminating on Tuesday morning, skywatchers can see the most reliable meteor shower of the year. Typically producing between 50 & 100 meteors per hour, the Geminids rarely disappoint. 

The Geminids get their name from their point of origin… in the constellation Gemini… right near Gemini’s brightest star Castor. Gemini can be found low and towards the east shortly after dark… and due south around 2:30am. Geminid meteors tend to be brighter and faster moving than those associated with other meteor showers. The current weather forecast is calling for skies to be partly cloudy… so lets hope for some cooperation from mother nature on this one. If you’re planning on observing the Geminids, best views will probably be had between midnight and first light. Just make sure to keep yourself warm and comfy. It is winter, so be sure to dress appropriately. I often climb inside a sleeping bag and layout on a reclining chair. This year, we're in for an added treat. The planet Saturn is currently cruising through Gemini. Be sure to point your scope towards Saturn while you're out there.

This gorgeous shot captures some star trails and a Geminid meteor over Brasstown Bald mountain, Georgia, in 1985. Credit: Jimmy Westlake

Checkout Science@NASA for more details.