December 12 – December 14
This spectacular event produces up to 120 multicolored meteors per hour at its height, making it one of the best astronomical displays of the year.
🌠 Geminids Meteor Shower
On the evening of December 13, stargazers can experience the peak of the Geminids Meteor Shower, renowned as the king of meteor showers.
The Geminids are produced by debris from an asteroid known as 3200 Phaethon, which was discovered in 1982.
The meteor shower runs annually from December 7 to December 17, with its peak occurring on the night of December 13 and the morning of December 14.
However, a nearly full moon this year will obscure all but the brightest meteors, but patience could reward viewers with some stunning sights.
🌙 Viewing Tips:
Meteors will appear to radiate from the constellation Gemini, though they can appear throughout the entire sky.
The showers will begin around 9 or 10 PM, but the best time to view the Geminids is from a dark location after midnight.
In Campbell River, there are several locations along the shore that offer excellent views, away from light pollution.
Areas near Elk Falls provide a great vantage point, while a bit further from town, Miracle Beach, Stories Beach, the top of Forbidden Plateau Road, and Goose Spit are also ideal spots for stargazing.
✨ Fun Facts:
Though the Geminids began appearing in the mid-1800s, early displays were not impressive, with only 10 to 20 meteors seen per hour.
Over the years, this shower has transformed into a major celestial event, known for its bright, fast meteors—often characterized by a yellow hue.
Get ready to enjoy one of the most reliable and vibrant meteor showers in the heavens during the Geminids Meteor Shower peak, a must-see for all astronomy enthusiasts!
