In a celestial spectacle set to unfold on the night of December 14, sky gazers are in for a rare double treat as the annual Geminid meteor shower reaches its peak, coinciding with the unexpected debut of a new meteor shower associated with comet 46P/Wirtanen. A recent study by a team of international researchers revealed that the debris stream from 46P/Wirtanen, formed during an extra-close encounter with Jupiter half a century ago, is intersecting Earth‘s path, creating what could be the first-ever meteor shower from this comet.
The comet, known for its “Christmas Comet” display in 2018, has historically failed to produce significant shooting stars despite close encounters. However, this year, Earth is expected to intercept a denser region of the comet cloud, potentially resulting in a unique and fascinating meteor shower. Unlike the Geminids, which are known for their reliability and high meteor count, the new shower is estimated to peak at a modest two to 10 meteors per hour.
Despite the limited meteor count, the event is noteworthy for its rarity. The new meteor shower will only be visible from Oceania and Indonesia, adding to its exclusivity. Skywatchers in the right location can expect the shooting stars to appear to originate from the constellation Sculptor in the southern sky between 0800 and 1230 GMT.
Meanwhile, the Geminid meteor shower, renowned as one of the most active and reliable annual displays, is set to reach its peak on the night of December 14 into the morning of December 15. This year’s Geminids hold particular appeal due to optimal viewing conditions: a new moon ensures a dark sky, and the shower coincides with the Geminids’ highest point in the sky from Earth’s eastern longitudes.
Astronomers recommend heading out in the early hours of December 15 for the best view, away from bright city lights and preferably in locations with dark skies. The Geminids, radiating from the constellation Gemini, are expected to have a zenithal hourly rate of around 150 meteors at their peak, making them a spectacular natural fireworks display.
As stargazers prepare for this celestial double feature, experts advise finding a comfortable, dark location, lying down, and allowing at least 30 minutes for eyes to adjust to the darkness. Whether witnessing the dependable Geminids or the potential debut of the 46P/Wirtanen-associated meteor shower, skywatchers are in for a captivating night under the stars.
(with inputs from PTI)
The comet, known for its “Christmas Comet” display in 2018, has historically failed to produce significant shooting stars despite close encounters. However, this year, Earth is expected to intercept a denser region of the comet cloud, potentially resulting in a unique and fascinating meteor shower. Unlike the Geminids, which are known for their reliability and high meteor count, the new shower is estimated to peak at a modest two to 10 meteors per hour.
Despite the limited meteor count, the event is noteworthy for its rarity. The new meteor shower will only be visible from Oceania and Indonesia, adding to its exclusivity. Skywatchers in the right location can expect the shooting stars to appear to originate from the constellation Sculptor in the southern sky between 0800 and 1230 GMT.
Meanwhile, the Geminid meteor shower, renowned as one of the most active and reliable annual displays, is set to reach its peak on the night of December 14 into the morning of December 15. This year’s Geminids hold particular appeal due to optimal viewing conditions: a new moon ensures a dark sky, and the shower coincides with the Geminids’ highest point in the sky from Earth’s eastern longitudes.
Astronomers recommend heading out in the early hours of December 15 for the best view, away from bright city lights and preferably in locations with dark skies. The Geminids, radiating from the constellation Gemini, are expected to have a zenithal hourly rate of around 150 meteors at their peak, making them a spectacular natural fireworks display.
As stargazers prepare for this celestial double feature, experts advise finding a comfortable, dark location, lying down, and allowing at least 30 minutes for eyes to adjust to the darkness. Whether witnessing the dependable Geminids or the potential debut of the 46P/Wirtanen-associated meteor shower, skywatchers are in for a captivating night under the stars.
(with inputs from PTI)
