Geminids

The Geminids are a prolific meteor shower caused by the object 3200 Phaethon, which is believed to be a Palladian asteroid with a "rock comet" orbit. Unlike most meteor showers, which originate from comets, the Geminids appear to be associated with this asteroid.

The meteors in this shower are known for their bright, often intensely colored streaks. They appear to radiate from a point in the constellation Gemini, near the bright star Castor, hence the name. However, meteors can appear anywhere in the night sky.

The Geminids are typically active every December, peaking around the 13th and 14th. At its peak, under optimal conditions, observers can see as many as 120 meteors per hour. The shower is considered one of the most reliable and impressive annual meteor showers.

The parent object, 3200 Phaethon, has a highly eccentric orbit that brings it exceptionally close to the Sun, closer than any other named asteroid. This close approach is believed to cause the surface of the asteroid to heat up and shed dust and debris, which then forms the meteoroid stream that Earth passes through each December. The mechanism by which Phaethon sheds material is still an area of active research.

Observing the Geminids requires dark skies away from city lights. No special equipment is needed; simply find a comfortable spot, allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness, and look up.