Geminids

meteor shower · space rocks · December sky

Unusual space origin. Unlike almost every other major meteor shower, the Geminids come from an asteroid called 3200 Phaethon instead of a comet. This makes them extra special because they're one of the only major showers with this kind of rocky parent body.

December's light show. You can spot Geminids in December, with the best viewing happening between December 4th and 16th. The absolute peak occurs on the morning of December 14th, when you might see up to 160 meteors streaking across the sky every hour.

Slower than others. Geminids move more slowly through our atmosphere than other meteor showers, which actually makes them easier to watch and enjoy. Their leisurely pace gives you more time to appreciate each shooting star.

Recently discovered. Astronomers first spotted Geminids in 1862, making them newcomers compared to famous showers like the Perseids and Leonids that people have watched for centuries.

Peak viewing time. The shower reaches its absolute best around 2:00 or 3:00 in the morning, so if you can wake up early on December 14th, you'll have the best chance of seeing dozens of meteors.