Tonight is the peak of the last meteor shower of 2023, the Geminids. The Geminids is the strongest out of all the annual showers with up to 120 meteors per hour at it’s peak. It will begin at around 9 pm local time and build until midnight. Those lucky enough to have clear cloudless skies will have the best viewing of the shower.
The best way to watch this miraculous event is to be patient and comfortable. Make sure you have warm clothes, a blanket, and you are away from bright lights or cities. A reclining chair or lawn chair is best, as you will be looking up into the night sky. At this time, look in the general direction of Gemini and you should be able to make out where many of the meteors will be originating. These streaking meteors will come from the constellation Gemini itself and is why it is known as the Geminids.
The meteors of the Geminids can be very varied. They could be slow and light or incredibly bright and fast. Any variation of color or size is also possible. Watching out for these unpredictable meteors is part of the fun! It is a wonderful natural event that should not be missed.
The Geminids rates as one of the top meteor showers of the year, so take advantage of this unique opportunity. Make sure you get outside with family and friends and view what is sure to be a spectacular night.