When and where to watch Geminid meteor shower in India?
The night sky is all set to witness a spectacular event 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 popular and active showers of the year, producing a high rate of meteors per hour. For astronomy enthusiasts and sky gazers in India, this is a great opportunity to witness the celestial spectacle and make some unforgettable memories.
As per the predictions by 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, making it an ideal time to witness the event. However, it’s essential to find a location with minimal light pollution to get the best view of the meteor shower.
To view the meteor shower, one should try and find a place where city lights are not strong. The city lights can obstruct the view of the meteors, making it difficult to witness the event. It’s recommended to head out to a remote location, away from the city lights, to get a clear view of the night sky. Some of the best places to watch the Geminid meteor shower in India include national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and other areas with minimal human habitation.
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 the debris, the small particles enter the atmosphere and burn up, producing the bright streaks of light that we see as meteors. The Geminid meteor shower is known for producing a high rate of meteors per hour, with some years producing over 100 meteors per hour.
The Geminid meteor shower is also known for producing some of the brightest meteors of the year. The meteors are often yellow or white in color and can be seen streaking across the sky at a speed of up to 40 km/s. Some of the meteors can also produce a bright burst of light, known as a fireball, which can be seen for a few seconds.
In addition to the Geminid meteor shower, the night sky will also be filled with other celestial objects, including planets, stars, and constellations. The winter sky is home to some of the most beautiful constellations, including Orion, Taurus, and Gemini. The planet Jupiter will also be visible in the night sky, shining brightly in the constellation of Pisces.
To make the most of the Geminid meteor shower, it’s essential to be prepared. Here are some tips to help you witness the event:
- Find a dark location with minimal light pollution
- Dress warmly and bring a blanket or chair to sit on
- Bring a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at the meteors
- Bring a camera to capture the moment
- Be patient and give your eyes time to adjust to the dark
- Try to spot the constellation of Gemini, from which the meteor shower originates
In conclusion, the Geminid meteor shower is a spectacular event that is not to be missed. With its high rate of meteors per hour and bright, fast-moving meteors, it’s an event that will leave you in awe. By following the tips and finding a dark location, you can make the most of the event and create some unforgettable memories.
About the Author
