When and where to watch Geminid meteor shower in India?
The night sky is all set to witness a spectacular celestial event, the Geminid meteor shower, which is expected to peak on the intervening night of December 13-14. This annual meteor shower is one of the most popular and active showers of the year, offering a thrilling experience for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts. In India, the best time to witness this phenomenon is between midnight and 4 am on December 14, according to Starscapes Zones.
To make the most of this event, it’s essential to find a location with minimal city lights, which can obstruct the view of the meteor shower. The Geminid meteor shower is known for its high rates of meteors, with some years producing over 100 meteors per hour. The shower is active from December 4 to 17, but the peak night is expected to be the most spectacular.
The Geminid meteor shower is caused by the Earth passing through the debris trail left behind by the asteroid 3200 Phaethon. As the Earth encounters this debris, the small particles enter the atmosphere and burn up, producing the bright streaks of light we see in the sky. The meteor shower is named after the constellation Gemini, from which the meteors appear to originate.
To witness the Geminid meteor shower in India, find a dark location with an unobstructed view of the sky. The best places to watch the meteor shower would be national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, or other areas with minimal artificial lighting. If you’re in a city, try to find a spot with minimal light pollution, such as a rooftop or a park.
It’s also essential to dress warmly and bring comfortable seating, as you’ll be outside for an extended period. Bring binoculars or a telescope to get a closer look at the meteors, but keep in mind that the best views are often with the naked eye. Give your eyes some time to adjust to the dark, and you’ll be able to see more meteors.
In addition to the Geminid meteor shower, the night sky will also feature other celestial objects, such as the constellation Orion, which will be visible in the eastern sky around 10 pm. The planet Jupiter will also be visible in the western sky, making it an excellent opportunity for stargazing.
Some of the best places to watch the Geminid meteor shower in India include:
- Rann of Kutch, Gujarat: Known for its dark skies and minimal light pollution, the Rann of Kutch is an ideal location for stargazing.
- Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir: The high altitude and clear skies of Ladakh make it a perfect spot for witnessing the Geminid meteor shower.
- Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh: The Spiti Valley is a remote and scenic location with minimal artificial lighting, making it an excellent spot for stargazing.
- Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh: The national park is known for its dark skies and is an excellent location for witnessing the Geminid meteor shower.
Remember to follow all safety guidelines and regulations when traveling to these locations, and be respectful of the environment and local communities.
In conclusion, the Geminid meteor shower is a spectacular celestial event that is not to be missed. With the peak night expected on the intervening night of December 13-14, it’s essential to find a dark location with minimal city lights to witness the event. So, grab your binoculars, dress warmly, and head out to a spot with an unobstructed view of the sky to witness this breathtaking phenomenon.
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