This weekend marks a special occasion: the Quadrantid meteor shower, the first meteor shower of the new year.
The meteor shower will peak in the northern hemisphere this weekend, and under the right conditions, viewing will be optimal for those interested in doing a little sky watching.
The Quadrantids is a unique meteor event, mostly because of its name. Most meteor showers have names that tell us where they came from, their constellations. However, there is no such constellation named Quadrans, at least not now. Up until 1922, though, there was one called the Quadrans Muralis, but it eventually got lumped into the constellation Bootes.
The Quadrantid is one of the most visible meteor showers of the year, although you have to be in the right spot at the right time with perfect conditions to see it.
(Photo : Jimmy Westlake/NASA)
"Quadrantids are also known for their bright fireball meteors," says NASA. "Fireballs are larger explosions of light and color that can persist longer than an average meteor streak. This is due to the fact that fireballs originate from larger particles of material. Fireballs are also brighter, with magnitudes brighter than -3.
So when and where should you be when the Quadrantids puts on its annual show? You'll want to be prepared for sky watching during the early morning hours both tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday. The meteor shower begins around midnight each night, but peaks after 3 a.m. and lasts until sunrise.
Of course, not all is perfect for viewing. A bright moon will affect the less dim meteors, but the brightest ones should still be visible.
Time is only one factor in viewing the Quadrantids, though. There's also location to consider. This meteor show will only be visible from the northern hemisphere of Earth.
For best viewing, NASA recommends leaving the city and going to a location away from all lights. The agency also recommends bringing a sleeping bag or chair that allows you to comfortably look up for long periods of time.
"Lie flat on your back with your feet facing northeast and look up, taking in as much of the sky as possible," says NASA. "In less than 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adapt and you will begin to see meteors."
Most importantly, the agency stresses patience. You may not see anything until nearly dawn. In other words, if you commit to seeing this meteor shower, prepare to be up all night.
