If you read my blog you know I enjoy astronomy ..star gazing. What may prove the best meteor shower of the year will reach its peak on the night of Dec.13-14. Thursday and Friday nights.

The annual Geminid Meteor Shower:

It's been said that "If you have not seen a mighty Geminid fireball arcing gracefully across an expanse of sky, then you have not seen a meteor."

The Geminids get their name from the constellation of Gemini, the Twins, because the meteors appear to emanate from a spot in the sky near the bright star Castor in Gemini.

The Geminid Meteors are usually the most spectacular of the annual showers, even surpassing the famous Perseids of August.

This year, the moon will cooperate as a crescent, in the south-southwest at dusk then setting around 8 p.m. That means that the sky will be dark and moonless. making for perfect viewing conditions.

Expect peak activity on Dec. 14 at 16:45 GMT. when rates will average 50-60 per hour. This year rates conceivably could exceed 120 per hour.


Look just above the east-northeast horizon right around twilight. You may see some early views. The best views will come around 2 a.m. as the constellation passes nearly overhead.

Bundle up and good luck!