Geminids: A Spectacular Meteor Shower

14 December, 2024119 words2 minutes

The Geminids, one of the strongest meteor showers of the year, is set to peak on Friday. Unlike most meteor showers that come from comets, the Geminids originate from an asteroid named 3200 Phaethon. This unique origin gives the meteors a distinctive yellow glow as they streak across the night sky.

Under ideal conditions, the Geminids can produce an impressive show with many visible meteors per hour. However, this year's almost full moon may reduce visibility to about 15 meteors per hour at peak time. For the best viewing experience, it's recommended to find a dark location away from city lights. The shower will be visible until December 21, offering multiple opportunities for stargazers to catch this celestial spectacle.

Words

peak

The highest point or maximum

originate

To come from a particular source; where something begins

distinctive

Having a special quality or feature that makes something different and easily noticed

celestial

Relating to the sky or outer space

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Geminids: A Spectacular Meteor Shower

Audio

Words

Quiz

1. What is unique about the origin of the Geminids meteor shower?

2. Why might the Geminids be less visible this year?

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