Foothills residents will be hoping for clear skies as the 2022 Geminid meteor shower peaks this week in southern Alberta.
This annual event will peak during the night of December 13-14 when Earth passes through the debris field of asteroid 3200 Phaethon. Residents could witness up to 120 meteors per hour. But with a bright moon this year, we might just see a shooting star show.
For excellent viewing, find an area away from city lights and street lights, pack for winter weather, bring a blanket or sleeping bag for comfort, stretch out ‘back with feet facing south and look up. It will take about 30 minutes for your eyes to fully adjust and see the meteors. Avoid looking at your cell phone or other bright objects to keep your eyes sharp.
An infographic on the 2019 meteor data for the Geminids. Credit: NASA
The show will last most of the night, so you have multiple opportunities to observe the brilliant streaks of light in our sky.
Phaethon orbits the Sun every 1.4 years, and every year Earth passes through its debris trail, giving rise to the Geminid shower.
Find out the best times and places to watch here.