Get ready for a wonderful sky event this week! While the Geminid Meteor Showers will be active between the 4th and the 17th, they will peak on Thursday night (the 13th). Look towards the Gemini constellation in the southeastern sky for a wonderful show. The Geminids are considered to be the most reliable showers of the year, and this year we are in for a treat since there won’t be any moonlight to distract from the shower. The Geminids are one of the only meteor showers not caused by comet debris. The beautiful showers are caused by an asteroid with a comet-like orbit around the Sun.
To make this a family stargazing event, don’t forget to prepare ahead of time! Set up a cozy spot in the yard, have their stargazing diaries ready, and prepare a few snacks as a surprise. Let your kids stay up a few extra hours, or sneak in to wake them up in the early hours before sunrise, and tell them to grab their jackets and hats. Be sure to have your stargazing playlist ready to go!