The Quadrantid meteor shower, set to peak on January 3-4, 2025, has the potential to be one of the best of the year. Scientists predict bright fireballs with a blue color due to high-speed meteors and certain elements in the meteoroids.
Dr. Shyam Balaji, an astroparticle physics researcher, explained that the Quadrantids will appear in the northeastern sky between January 3 and dawn on January 4. The favorable conditions include a dark moon phase, with a 16% illuminated waning crescent moon setting early, providing clear skies for most of the night.
To witness the Quadrantid meteor shower, experts recommend finding a dark location away from city lights, dressing warmly, and allowing your eyes to adjust for at least 20 minutes. Avoid using telescopes or binoculars and keep electronic devices on red light mode to preserve your night vision.
The Quadrantids originate from asteroid 2003 EH1, making them one of the few meteor showers linked to an asteroid rather than a comet. With these tips, you can enjoy this rare opportunity to see blue-colored fireballs in the sky.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamiecartereurope/2025/01/02/blue-fireballs-to-light-up-the-skies-as-meteor-shower-peaks-this-weekend