NEW YORK — The Ursids meteor shower is about to light up the night sky! It peaks soon, offering a chance to see streaks of light as the year comes to a close. While this shower isn’t as flashy as others, it’s still worth checking out.
Meteor showers occur when tiny space rocks enter Earth’s atmosphere at high speeds and ignite, creating what we call “shooting stars.” While random meteors can grace clear nights, major showers happen when Earth moves through clouds of dust left by comets or asteroids.
The Ursids will shine brightly from late Sunday night into Monday morning and can be enjoyed until December 26 in the Northern Hemisphere. During peak times, viewers can expect to see five to ten meteors every hour, with occasional bursts reaching up to 25, according to the American Meteor Society.
The number of meteors visible depends on debris in the sky and the brightness of the moon. Though the Ursids have less debris compared to shows like the Geminids, the faint crescent moon during its peak won’t hinder visibility much.
No special gear is needed to witness this celestial event. To catch the Ursids, it’s best to find a dark spot away from city lights. Astronomer Peter Brown from Western University in Canada reminds us, “The darker your sky, the better the shower will be.”
It’s interesting to note that the meteors will appear to radiate from a point near Ursa Minor, also known as the Little Dipper. When it gets dark, try to minimize light sources, like your cellphone, as they can hinder your night vision.
Recent studies show that more people are engaging with astronomy due to a rise in accessible stargazing apps and social media sharing. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have sparked a trend, encouraging users to post their meteor shower experiences. This growing interest aligns with a broader societal shift towards embracing science and nature.
So, gather some friends, head out to a dark area, and enjoy the show! The stars are waiting.
Source link
news,traffic,weather,sports,classifieds,cars,jobs,homes,television,radio,salt lake,utah,local,Science,Nature,Recreation,Education
