Don't Miss It: The Overlooked Ursid Meteor Shower Peaks Next Week – Date, Time, Location, and Details

December offers skywatchers a second chance to spot a meteor shower: the Ursids, peaking on the night of December 21st into the early morning of December 22nd. While the Geminids usually steal the show, the Ursids provide a more intimate viewing experience for those willing to brave the cold. Under dark skies, viewers can expect to see 5 to 10 meteors per hour. This year, a thin crescent moon will make viewing conditions even better.

**When to Watch:**

According to reports, the Ursid meteor shower will be most visible overnight from December 21st to the morning of December 22nd, with the highest activity expected around 5 a.m. EST. This timing is particularly favorable for those in North America, although an early wake-up is required.

**Why the Ursids Are Often Missed:**

Several factors contribute to the Ursids being the least observed of the major annual meteor showers. December nights in the Northern Hemisphere are notoriously cold, and clear skies only intensify the chill. Additionally, cloud cover frequently obscures the view. The peak's proximity to Christmas also means many people are preoccupied with holiday preparations. It's also not visible from the Southern Hemisphere.

**What to Expect:**

At its peak, the Ursid meteor shower can produce around 5 to 10 meteors per hour from a dark location. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. outside of the peak, the rate can drop to less than one meteor per hour. Reports indicate that on December 21st around 9:39 p.m. PST (12:39 a.m. EST on December 22nd), Earth may pass through a denser area of debris from Comet Tuttle, potentially leading to a temporary increase in meteor activity.

**How to Find the Ursids:**

To view the Ursids, look north toward the constellation Ursa Minor, also known as the Little Dipper. The radiant, or point from which the meteors appear to originate, is located near the star Kochab. In the early evening, around 8 p.m., the radiant will be low in the sky, but it will rise higher as the night progresses, improving viewing conditions. Remember that not every meteor spotted will necessarily be an Ursid; random meteors and other minor showers might also be visible.

**Tips for Optimal Viewing:**

Avoid looking directly overhead. Instead, focus on an area about halfway up the northern sky, ensuring the horizon doesn't obstruct your view. Meteors will appear across the sky, so there's no need to stare directly at the radiant.

**Favorable Viewing Conditions This Year:**

The presence of a thin crescent moon on the evening of December 22nd will result in darker pre-dawn hours, creating ideal conditions for meteor watching – a rare advantage for observing the Ursids this year.

**Staying Comfortable:**

To stay comfortable during the cold night, dress warmly in layers and bring blankets or a sleeping bag. Hot drinks are also recommended. Use a red flashlight to preserve your night vision.

**Finding a Dark Spot:**

Choose a dark location away from city lights to maximize visibility. Commit to at least one hour of observation, as meteor activity can be unpredictable, with periods of both high and low activity.

**Frequently Asked Questions:**

• What is the Ursid meteor shower?** The Ursids are a modest meteor shower in December that appears to originate from the constellation Ursa Minor (the Little Dipper).
• When does the Ursid meteor shower peak?** The shower's peak activity occurs overnight on December 21-22, with the best viewing time around 5 a.m. EST.