Stargazers can look forward to one of the most popular meteor showers of the year as the Geminids peak this weekend.
At their height, people watching from dark skies could see up to 120 meteors an hour, according to NASA. The Geminids are known for bright, colorful streaks caused by debris from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon.
The shower peaks from the night of Saturday, Dec. 13, into the early hours of Sunday, Dec. 14. Viewing conditions are favourable because moonlight won’t interfere until about 2 a.m. local time.
The best time to watch is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. The meteors usually appear near the constellation Gemini in the eastern sky, though they can be seen across much of the sky. Jupiter will also be visible.
No special equipment is needed. Experts recommend finding a dark spot away from city lights, letting your eyes adjust to the dark, avoiding bright screens, and dressing warmly. Even if you miss the peak, the Geminids will remain visible until Dec. 17.
