The annual Geminid meteor shower, a celestial event renowned for its brightness and reliability, will reach its peak on the night of December 13 and into the early morning hours of December 14, according to NASA and the American Meteor Society.

This shower, active from November 19 to December 24, is unique among meteor showers because its source is not a comet, but rather the asteroid 3200 Phaeton. This asteroid sheds debris as it orbits the sun, creating the spectacular display of “shooting stars” we observe each December.

Under optimal viewing conditions—a dark, clear sky far from city lights—observers can typically witness over 100 meteors per hour at the peak. However, this year’s peak will coincide with a bright waxing gibbous moon, which will unfortunately wash out some of the fainter meteors. Despite this lunar interference, a significant number of bright Geminids should still be visible, especially during the darker hours before dawn.

The Geminids are known for their vibrant colors. While many appear as bright yellow streaks, observers may also catch sight of white and even green meteors. Their relatively slow speed of 21 miles (34 kilometers) per second allows for easier observation compared to some faster meteor showers. The meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Gemini, hence the name “Geminids.” For those unfamiliar with the constellation, locating the bright stars Castor and Pollux (known as the “twins”) will provide a good starting point for observation. A stargazing app can also be helpful in locating the constellation and other celestial objects.

While the peak viewing period is on the 13 and 14, the Geminid shower will remain active for several weeks, offering multiple opportunities to catch a glimpse of these celestial wonders. The best viewing times will be during the late evening hours and the pre-dawn hours of December 13 and 14. Remember to find a location with minimal light pollution for the best viewing experience.