A vibrant meteor shower is expected to streak across the night sky next week, thanks to debris from asteroid Phaethon. The Geminid meteor shower will peak at 2 a.m. on December 14, but the best viewing time is 4 p.m. on December 13. This year’s show promises to be one of the best, with up to 150 meteors per hour visible when at its peak.
Unlike comets, which typically produce meteor showers, Phaethon’s debris causes the Geminids. First spotted in the 19th century, the asteroid was discovered in 1983. Every mid-December, it produces debris that intersects with Earth’s orbit, resulting in a spectacular display of meteors.
However, the moon may hamper viewing, as a waxing gibbous moon with 90% illumination will be in the night sky during the peak. This could limit stargazers to seeing only the brightest meteors. But don’t worry – spotting the Geminids doesn’t require special equipment. Simply find a dark location, away from light pollution, and enjoy the show.
Unfortunately, cloudy skies may hinder viewing in some areas, including Boston, Worcester, and Springfield, which are expected to experience mostly cloudy conditions between December 13 and 14.
Source: https://www.masslive.com/weather/2024/12/heres-when-the-geminid-meteor-shower-is-expected-to-reach-its-peak.html