The annual Quadrantid meteor shower will reach its peak this weekend, offering a spectacular natural display in the northern sky. The event is best viewed in the northern hemisphere, with meteors radiating from the constellation Boötes.
Unlike many meteor showers that peak over several days, the Quadrantids only last for a few hours. On perfect nights, 60 to 200 meteors can be seen per hour. The best viewing time is from late night on January 3rd to dawn on January 4th in the UK.
The Quadrantid meteor shower originates from dust left behind by comets and asteroids. In 2003, astronomers discovered the source of the shower: the near-Earth asteroid 2003 EH1. To maximize viewing, observers should dress warmly and head to a dark area with minimal streetlight interference.
A waxing crescent moon is expected to enhance viewing conditions, and the Quadrantids are known for their bright blue fireball meteors due to the presence of elements like magnesium and iron in the meteoroids.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2025/jan/02/quadrantid-meteor-shower-to-light-up-the-sky-this-weekend