Geminid Meteor Shower Peaks Early Friday

news image
Special Stories
13 Dec 2018 6:03 PM
Let your eyes adjust, grab the popcorn, and put on extra layers to take in the Geminid meteor shower overnight. Friday morning will be the best window to take in this annual tradition. You may need to set the alarm clock though, because 2 a.m. local time is the best window to take in the meteors, astronomers say. Astronomers describe the meteors within the Geminid shower to be "bold, white and quick." The cause of the meteor shower is a rock comet called '3200 Phaethon.' The so-called 3200 Phaethon crashes into the Earth's upper atmosphere at an estimated 80,000 miles per hour! It is then that the particles vaporize into colorful Geminid meteors. These meteors will be burning up about 60 miles above us. This phenomenon occurs when Earth passes through the tail of a comet. Those small particles of debris often lead to the brilliant 'shooting stars' across our night sky. You may be able to see between 50-120 meteors per hour at its peak! Tips for best viewing:
  • Get away from city lights and light pollution
  • Allow 20-30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness
  • Go with a buddy to stay safe!
  • Dress warmly in this cold season
If you capture any part of this amazing nature show, please share your video your picture with us on our Facebook or Twitter pages. For WeatherNation, Meteorologist Steve Glazier
All Weather News
More
A Change in Pattern for the Northwest

A Change in Pattern for the Northwest

Relief is on the way for the northwestern U.S

12 Sep 2024 5:20 PM
Hundreds of Thousands Without Power After Francine

Hundreds of Thousands Without Power After Francine

Francine made landfall in southern Louisiana

12 Sep 2024 4:40 PM
Francine Moves North with Heavy Rain and Tornadoes

Francine Moves North with Heavy Rain and Tornadoes

Francine made landfall in southern Louisiana

12 Sep 2024 4:30 PM
"Sunshine State" Staying Soggy

"Sunshine State" Staying Soggy

FLORIDA - the "Sunshine State" has been exper

12 Sep 2024 4:00 PM
Earth Experiences Hottest August in 175-Year record

Earth Experiences Hottest August in 175-Year record

Global temperatures continue to soar, with Au

12 Sep 2024 3:00 PM
Monitoring Multiple Areas of Interest in the Tropics

Monitoring Multiple Areas of Interest in the Tropics

Statistically, we are now past the climatolog

12 Sep 2024 2:00 PM
Airport Fire in California Prompts Evacuations

Airport Fire in California Prompts Evacuations

ORANGE COUNTY, CA - The Airport Fire in south

12 Sep 2024 3:00 AM