When and where to watch Geminid meteor shower in India?
The night sky is all set to put up a spectacular show as the Geminid meteor shower is expected to peak on the intervening night of December 13-14. This annual meteor shower is one of the most active and reliable ones, producing up to 120 meteors per hour at its peak. If you’re excited to witness this celestial event, here’s everything you need to know about when and where to watch the Geminid meteor shower in India.
Best Time to Watch the Geminid Meteor Shower
As per Starscapes Zones, the best time for viewing the Geminid meteor shower in India is between midnight and 4 am on December 14. During this time, the sky will be at its darkest, and the meteor shower will be at its peak, increasing your chances of spotting the most meteors. It’s essential to note that the meteor shower will be visible in the sky for several nights before and after the peak, but the rates will be lower.
Finding the Perfect Spot to Watch the Meteor Shower
To view the meteor shower, one should try and find a place where city lights are not strong. The light pollution from cities can make it difficult to spot the meteors, which are often faint and quick. If you’re living in a city, try to find a spot that is away from the city lights, such as a park or a spot outside the city limits. If possible, head to a rural area or a designated dark-sky preserve, where the sky will be much darker, and you’ll have a better chance of spotting the meteors.
Tips for Watching the Geminid Meteor Shower
Here are some tips to help you make the most of the Geminid meteor shower:
- Dress Warmly: December can be quite chilly in India, especially in the early hours of the morning. Make sure to dress warmly and bring blankets or sleeping bags to keep you cozy while you’re watching the meteor shower.
- Bring Binoculars: While binoculars are not necessary to watch the meteor shower, they can help you spot more meteors and get a closer look at the sky.
- Be Patient: Watching a meteor shower requires patience. It may take some time to spot the first meteor, so be prepared to spend at least an hour or two outside.
- Get Comfortable: Bring a comfortable chair or a blanket to sit on, and make sure you have a clear view of the sky.
- Download a Sky Map App: Downloading a sky map app can help you identify the constellations and the radiant point of the meteor shower, which is the point in the sky where the meteors appear to originate from.
What to Expect
The Geminid meteor shower is one of the most active and reliable meteor showers of the year. At its peak, it can produce up to 120 meteors per hour, although the actual rates may vary depending on the location and the sky conditions. The meteors will appear to originate from the constellation Gemini, which will be high in the sky during the peak hours. The meteors will be fast-moving and may leave behind glowing trails that can last for several seconds.
Conclusion
The Geminid meteor shower is a spectacular event that is not to be missed. With its peak on the intervening night of December 13-14, it’s the perfect opportunity to get outside and enjoy the night sky. By following the tips and finding a dark spot to watch the meteor shower, you’ll be able to make the most of this celestial event. So mark your calendars, grab some blankets, and get ready to witness one of the most spectacular meteor showers of the year.
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