Prepare for a celestial spectacle as the geminids light up the night sky this week, offering vibrant streaks of colour and up to 150 meteors per hour.

December brings with it the celestial wonder of the Geminid meteor shower, a dazzling display of shooting stars that peaks this week. Known for its abundance and vibrant colours, the Geminids are one of the most reliable meteor showers, captivating stargazers year after year.

This year, the Geminid meteors will grace the skies from 4 to 20 December, with the most active period falling between Friday and Sunday. In the UK, the early hours of Saturday offer the prime opportunity to witness this cosmic show.

What Makes the Geminids Special?

Unlike most meteor showers, which originate from comets, the Geminids are unique. They are caused by debris from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon. As these fragments enter Earth’s atmosphere at astonishing speeds of up to 150,000 mph (241,000 km/h), they vaporise, leaving streaks of light across the sky.

Adding to their allure, the Geminids often appear in a rainbow of colours—white, yellow, green, red, and blue—thanks to elements like sodium and calcium within the asteroid’s debris. This distinctive feature makes the Geminids a favourite among skywatchers.

First observed in 1862, the Geminids are thought to intensify annually, according to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. With up to 150 meteors visible per hour during peak conditions, they remain one of the most dazzling meteor showers of the year.

How to See the Geminids

The best part? You don’t need telescopes or binoculars to enjoy this celestial display. The Geminids are visible to the naked eye—provided you have a clear, dark sky.

To maximise your viewing experience:

• Dress warmly and bring a blanket or camping chair for comfort.
• Avoid areas with light pollution; the farther you are from city lights, the better.
• Let your eyes adjust to the darkness for about 15–30 minutes.
• A flask of hot chocolate can make the chilly night more enjoyable.

Shyam Balaji, a researcher in astroparticle physics at King’s College London, suggests starting your watch around mid-evening, though 2 a.m. local time is ideal for the best view. While the meteors can be seen across the sky, he recommends focusing on the constellation Gemini, near the bright star Castor, as the meteors seem to radiate from this point.

What to Expect

Although the Geminids can produce up to 150 meteors per hour, you may see fewer due to the moonlight. The Moon will be nearly full this Sunday, washing out some of the fainter meteors. Still, the brighter shooting stars will remain visible, making the effort worthwhile.

Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply curious about the night sky, the Geminid meteor shower offers a spectacular opportunity to connect with the cosmos. Gather your warm clothes, find a quiet spot under the stars, and prepare to be mesmerised.