Geminid meteor shower to be visible on Dec 13 & 14 night sky

Nagpur: The annual Geminid meteor shower, considered one of the brightest and most consistent celestial events, is set to peak on the nights of December 13 and 14. It offers skywatchers a chance to witness dozens of meteors streaking across the night sky. The Geminids are unique because they originate from 3200 Phaethon, an asteroid rather than a comet. As these tiny fragments enter Earth's atmosphere, they burn up, creating luminous trails that can be seen without any special equipment. Experts recommend moving away from urban areas to fully experience the spectacle. Mahendra Wagh, Technical Officer at Raman Science Centre, explained the phenomenon in simple terms, saying, "People often wonder what a meteor really is. It's simply a tiny grain of dust or rock from space, entering Earth's atmosphere and burning up due to friction. The Geminids are special because they produce many such bright streaks. But to truly enjoy them, one must move away from the city. Even if there are no specific timings to follow, it is advised to witness the shower after 10 pm. Extreme city lights and air pollution dim the sky, making faint meteors disappear. A short drive outside Nagpur can make all the difference." The best time to watch the meteor shower is advised after 10 pm when the activity is expected to intensify. Under ideal conditions, observers may witness up to 100 meteors per hour, although visibility will heavily depend on sky clarity and pollution levels, as the experts said. The gazing requires no telescopes or binoculars; a clear sky and an unobstructed view are sufficient. For many astronomy enthusiasts and families, the Geminid shower will offer an opportunity to enjoy a rare and striking natural phenomenon.
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