Geminid meteor shower: The last major spectacle of the year in Spain
As many as 120 shooting stars per hour will be visible from Spain this December 13
Every December, the Geminids light up the sky across Spain with a meteor display that is among the most impressive in the astronomical calendar. In 2024, this shower promises a unique spectacle, reaching its peak on the night of December 13-14, when up to 120 shooting stars per hour will be clearly visible across Spain.
One potential fly in the ointment is the full moon that will appear on December 15, which could, in theory, hamper visibility. But so bright are the Geminids compared to other meteors that even this lunar display shouldn’t cause too many problems.
What makes the Geminids special?
What sets the Geminids apart from other meteor showers is their asteroid origin. Unlike most showers, which originate from comets, the Geminids come from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon.
This unique phenomenon gives the Geminids distinct characteristics, including greater luminosity and a kaleidoscope of colours – from yellow and green to red and blue tones.
The Geminids are known for their slow-moving meteors, which offer a prolonged view in the sky. This is due to the composition of the particles, which allows them to survive longer in the Earth's atmosphere before disintegrating.
As a result, the Geminid shooting stars are one of the most active showers of the year, surpassing even the popular Perseids.
When and where to witness the spectacle
The Geminids will be visible across Spain from December 4 to 17, but the peak activity is set to occur on the night of Friday December 13 into the early morning of December 14.
To maximise your chances of witnessing the spectacle, head to a dark location with a clear horizon and minimal light pollution.
The radiant of the shower will be in the constellation Gemini, so aim your gaze towards this direction for the best views.
Tips for an unforgettable experience
While the full Moon may partially limit the visibility of fainter meteors, the brightest ones will still shine through. To make the most of the experience:
- Find a spot with minimal light pollution and a clear horizon.
- Allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for at least 20 minutes.
- Bring a reclining chair or blanket for comfortable viewing.
- Use a tripod and long exposure (15-30 seconds) to capture the meteors on camera.
Image: Canva
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