A “breathtaking” meteor shower is anticipated to illuminate the night sky this weekend.
The Geminid shower, often referred to as a “meteor storm” due to its remarkable intensity, is predicted to reach its zenith sometime between Saturday and Sunday.
This spectacular event has been known to generate over 150 meteors per hour at its height; however, light pollution and various other factors often result in a considerably lower visibility count.
The Geminids emanate from a stony asteroid labeled 3200 Phaethon, which follows a comet-like trajectory and was first recorded in 1862.
Dr. Minjae Kim, a research associate in the physics faculty at the University of Warwick, stated: “The Geminids are among the most stunning meteor showers of the year.
“They are intriguing as they are one of the few significant meteor showers linked to an asteroid, 3200 Phaethon, instead of a comet.”
As per the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, the radiant meteors of the Geminid shower are distinctive as they exhibit multiple colors; while most appear white, some display hues of yellow and a few show green, red, and blue.
The varied colors are partially attributed to the presence of trace metals like sodium and calcium, a phenomenon similar to what is used in creating colorful fireworks.
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The meteors, which are tiny fragments of cosmic debris, seem to radiate from near the brilliant star Castor within the Gemini constellation.
Although the shower can be viewed with the unaided eye, it is advised that stargazers prepare to spend some time outdoors, as observing the magnificent streaks may take a little while.
Those wishing to witness this celestial event are encouraged to locate an expansive area, away from light pollution sources.
