Excitement is building among stargazers as the annual Geminid meteor shower promises to treat observers to one of the most spectacular displays of shooting stars in recent memory.
The eagerly anticipated event, known for its stunning visuals and vibrant colors, is set to reach its peak this week. The Geminid shower boasts over 100 meteors per hour, each lighting up the night sky in various hues, earning them the nickname ‘Nature’s own Christmas Lights.’
This year’s shower commenced on December 4 and will extend nearly up to Christmas Eve, with the climax anticipated on the nights of December 14 and December 15. The peak coincides with the new moon, ensuring darker skies, and weather forecasters are optimistic about clear and cloud-free conditions in most areas on Thursday night.
Astronomy enthusiasts are in for a treat as scientists predict that 2023 will be an exceptional year to witness a meteor streak across the sky.
However, for the 85 percent of the population residing in urban areas, the visibility of the Geminid meteor shower hinges on location and the brightness of local lights. Light pollution data analysis reveals significant variations in the visibility of the night sky across cities in the UK.
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Out of the 81 cities surveyed, 12 – including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham, Aberdeen, and Belfast – are categorised in the worst light pollution level.
On the flip side, 20 other cities boast lower light pollution levels, allowing residents to witness the Milky Way overhead.
Cities like Lancaster, Chippenham, Ripon, Folkestone, Truro, and Winchester are among those offering the best views of the night skies.
Britain’s smallest official city, St David’s in Pembrokeshire, claims the lowest light pollution rating, closely followed by Uckfield in East Sussex, as revealed by a survey commissioned by online firm Best Gambling Sites.
Unlike some meteor showers, the Geminids are not caused by a comet but by debris left behind by the asteroid Phaethon, first observed in 1862.
Anticipation for the Geminids is particularly high due to the brightness and multi-colored nature of the meteors, appearing as yellow, green, and blue streaks of light.
During peak times, observers with dark enough skies can witness over 100 meteors per hour. This year’s Geminids are expected to peak around 7.30 pm on December 14. Named after the constellation Gemini, the Geminids appear to radiate from the area near a star in that constellation.
To maximise the viewing experience, astronomers recommend finding a dark area of the sky near Gemini, settling into a chair, allowing the eyes to adjust, and patiently awaiting the spectacle. Spotting a meteor shower is best done with the naked eye, so there’s no need for telescopes or binoculars.
