Geminid Meteor Shower peaks SATURDAY & features 60+ colorful meteors an hour!

Our neighbors to the north at Headlands International Dark Sky Park share that it’s almost time for the peak of the annual Geminid Meteor Shower:

The Geminids meteor shower peaks this weekend as Earth passes through debris from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon. The moon phase is favorable for viewing IF you can find a location with dark, clear skies without a winter cloud blanket. It is one of the most spectacular meteor showers of the year, with up to 150 meteors per hour (60 is a more realistic average) visible under ideal conditions.

The shower is active from about December 4 to December 20, with the peak occurring overnight on December 13-14. Geminid meteors are often bright, moderately fast, and can be multi-colored (white, yellow, green, red, and blue) due to the presence of metals like sodium and calcium.

The meteors appear to originate from the constellation Gemini, which is why the shower is called the Geminids. However, they can be seen anywhere in the sky, so don’t just focus on the constellation Gemini.

Find a dark spot, and someplace without constant cloud cover. Get as far away from city and street lights as possible. Dress WARM! Winter meteor showers are for hardier enthusiasts. Plan ahead for weather!