Year’s Strongest Meteor Shower Peaks: When To See The Geminids At Their Best
The Geminid meteor shower is set to peak soon, offering a chance to see up to 150 shooting stars per hour streak across the night sky. Here's when, where, and how to see the 2023 Geminid meteor shower.
Geminids 2023: When To See ‘Shooting Stars’
The Geminid meteor shower is worth catching on its peak night—overnight on Wednesday, December 13 through Thursday, December 14—but you don't have to stay up particularly late. According to the American Meteor Society, by 22:00 on December 13, there should already be Geminids in the night sky.
Geminids 2023: Where To See ‘Shooting Stars’
The Geminids meteor shower is caused by streams of material orbiting the sun, which are not connected to the constellation Gemini. However, since the constellation is high above the horizon by 22:00, the shooting stars will also be in that direction. It's advisable to look generally towards the southeast, but shooting stars can appear anywhere in the night sky.
Geminids 2023: How To See ‘Shooting Stars’
To maximize your chances of seeing the Geminid meteor shower, NASA recommends the following tips:
- Get as far away from urban light pollution as possible.
- Find a location with a clear and unobstructed view of the night sky.
- Dress warmly as it may get very cold.
- Be patient and watch for at least half an hour, preferably on a reclining chair or ground pad.
- Avoid using telescopes or binoculars, as they can hinder your chances of seeing shooting stars.
- Avoid looking at your cellphone or any other white light, as it can disrupt your night vision. Use red light only.
