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The Quadrantid meteor shower, expected to be the first and strongest meteor shower this year, is expected to peak in skies over the United States around 4 p.m. on Jan. 4. in the sky, Scientists say the Quadrantid meteor shower could produce up to 120 shooting stars every hour.
However, people may still see high rates of meteors between January 4-5, and the showers will continue through January 12, but the chances of seeing meteors may be significantly reduced by then.
“The Quadrantids, which peak in early January each year, are considered one of the best annual meteor showers.” Hindustan Times As quoted by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
Also read: Geminids meteor shower 2023: what is it? This is the best time to watch. All you need to know
Best time to see the shower in the US:
This year, the Quadrantids peak is expected to occur on January 4 at 7:53 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. According to EarthSkyThe meteor shower, which became active on December 26, 2023, will continue until January 16, 2024.
The site also noted that the best time to view the shower from North America will be from 4:53 a.m. EST until dawn.
In addition to the Quadrantid Shower, the three notable showers that occur annually are the Lyrids, Leonids, and Ursids. They are known for their unique peaks.
NASA’s recommendations on viewing methods:
To get a richer experience of the Quadrantids, NASA recommends people observe them from a remote area during nighttime and early morning hours.
Also, the space agency advised enthusiasts to be adequately prepared for the harsh winter conditions, as the moon will be 47 percent illuminated during this time of peak.
“Lie straight on your back with your legs pointing northeast and look up into the sky as much as possible,” NASA said. It says, “In less than 30 minutes in the dark your eyes will adapt and you will be able to see meteors.”
Quadrantids Meteor Shower: Everything You Need to Know
Meteor showers are usually named after constellations, but when it comes to the Quadrantids, they originate from the now obsolete Quadrans Muralis constellation. According to NASA, it is located between the constellations Bootes and Draco, placing it near the end of the Big Dipper’s handle in the northern sky. The Quadrantids are associated with asteroid 2003 EH1, which takes about 5.5 years to orbit the Sun, Hindustan Times reports.
Due to this, quadrilateral meteor showers, which result from dust and debris debris, are seen especially in the Northern Hemisphere.
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Published: 04 January 2024, 03:46 PM IST
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