Get ready for a spectacular display of shooting stars as the Quadrantid meteor shower peaks on January 3. According to NASA, this is one of the strongest and most fleeting meteor showers of the year.
Here’s what you need to know:
The Quadrantids will reach their peak activity between 10am ET and 1pm ET, with Alaska, Hawaii, and far eastern Asia being the best viewing spots. Sky-gazers on the east coast can expect up to 25 meteors per hour, while those in western Alaska might witness over 100 meteors per hour.
To maximize your chances of spotting the Quadrantids, head out to a dark location with an unobstructed view of the sky. Give your eyes about 20-30 minutes to adjust to the darkness before gazing upwards. The best time is usually before dawn, and the radiant point lies at a right angle between the Big Dipper and Arcturus.
The Quadrantids originate from a mysterious asteroid called 2003 EH1, which takes 5.52 years to orbit the sun. This meteor shower is notable for its bright fireballs, which can create a dramatic display. However, the Quadrantids are usually invisible in the Southern Hemisphere due to their radiant point.
If you’re interested in tracking other meteor showers this year, NASA has listed several events through 2025. But mark your calendars for January 3 – it’s going to be a night to remember!
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/02/science/quadrantid-meteor-shower-january/index.html