Here in Virginia, we’re big night sky enthusiasts. For proof of this, look no further than our collection of Dark Sky Parks, or the fact that there’s a state-of-the-art telescope near one of our top resorts. That’s why we’re quite excited about an upcoming event: the Geminid meteor shower 2022. Here’s everything you need to know about experiencing the boldest and biggest meteor shower of the year, visible over Virginia in December!
First things first: when is the Geminid meteor shower? The meteor shower is expected to peak on December 14th, 2022.
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Of course, you may also be wondering “what is the Geminid meteor shower?”
GarrettMartin / Getty Images Most meteor showers are caused by comets; however, the Geminid meteor shower is unique in that it’s caused by an asteroid. The asteroid that will cause the Geminid meteor shower is known as 3200 Phaethon.
Particles from this particular asteroid are expected to hit our atmosphere in December, and you’ll be able to see them in the night sky.
Joshua Moore / Getty Images
Your best odds of seeing the show is to watch the night sky at 2:00 a.m., preferably at a designated dark sky area. An area with little light pollution should also do the trick.
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What’s even more spectacular is that Geminid meteors are bolder than other meteors, and they’re fast and bright too. In fact, they’ll be brighter than moonlight!
GarrettMartin / Getty Images Another unusual thing to note is that meteors from asteroids typically don’t leave tails. During peak hours, you could spot at least 50 of these per hour!
Are you someone who enjoys meteor showers? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! For related content, check out this resort in Virginia that offers incredible opportunities for stargazing. It’s totally bucket-list-worthy.
josephgruber / Getty Images
GarrettMartin / Getty Images
Most meteor showers are caused by comets; however, the Geminid meteor shower is unique in that it’s caused by an asteroid. The asteroid that will cause the Geminid meteor shower is known as 3200 Phaethon.
Joshua Moore / Getty Images
AvnerOferPhotography / Getty Images
Another unusual thing to note is that meteors from asteroids typically don’t leave tails. During peak hours, you could spot at least 50 of these per hour!
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