Cast your eyes skyward as the planets align this month for a meteoric rise in star-gazing pleasure.
One of the most awesome astronomical events of the year is set to peak on Thursday, December 14.
The Geminid Meteor Shower – a dazzling display of ‘rock comet’ fragments – lights up the December sky every year.
But University of Southern Queensland astrophysicist Professor Jonti Horner said the 2023 display would be even more spectacular because the shower’s peak coincided with the new moon.
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“The Geminids are caused by a trail of debris that the Earth crosses at this time every year, and we always get an amazing meteor shower that lasts a few weeks,” he said.
“The difference this year is that their peak time coincides with the new moon. So, the Moon will be out of the way and the sky will be properly dark all night, making it the perfect time to watch the Geminids.”
Professor Horner said the Geminids would reach their peak on the night of December 14 and in the early hours of December 15, with the best view coming between midnight and 4am.
“Most people have seen at least one shooting star in their life,” he said.
“But when the Geminids reach their peak at around 2am, you could see up to 40 or 50 every hour.”
Professor Horner recommended going camping or heading somewhere very dark to enjoy the free show.
“Go somewhere dark, away from bright sources of light, and make sure to spend at least half an hour under the stars to let your eyes adjust fully to the darkness,” he said.
“Just lie back and enjoy the meteors, and that time spent with your loved ones.”
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