As the year wraps up, the night sky over Long Island promises a dazzling finale with the last two meteor showers of 2024: the Geminids and Ursids. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or just love the beauty of the stars, these celestial events are not to be missed. Bundle up, grab a thermos of hot cocoa, and prepare to marvel at the universe’s natural fireworks display.
The Geminid Meteor Shower: December 13-14, 2024
One of the most spectacular meteor showers of the year, the Geminids, will peak on the nights of December 13-14. While this year’s viewing will be impacted by a Waxing Gibbous Moon, the Geminids are known for their brilliance, with over 100 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. The best time to catch these bright streaks of light is around 2 a.m., with meteors radiating from the constellation Gemini.
- Active Dates: November 19 – December 24
- Best Viewing: After midnight, when the radiant is highest in the sky.
- Fun Fact: The Geminids are unique because they’re produced by an asteroid (3200 Phaethon) instead of a comet.
The Ursid Meteor Shower: December 21-22, 2024
Just days before Christmas, the Ursids offer a subtler but equally magical show, peaking on December 21-22. This shower produces about 10 meteors per hour under good conditions. With a Last Quarter Moon at 55% illumination, the best viewing will be before the moon rises or in darker locations shielded from its light.
- Active Dates: December 17 – 26
- Best Viewing: Late evening into early morning, with the radiant in Ursa Minor.
- Fun Fact: The Ursids come from comet 8P/Tuttle, which won’t make its next close approach to Earth until 2035.
Tips for Meteor Watching:
- Head to a location with minimal light pollution, like a local park or beach.
- Dress warmly and bring a reclining chair for comfort.
- Allow 20–30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the dark.
- Look up—no telescope required!
Want to make your stargazing adventure even more special? Visit one of Long Island’s incredible public observatories to enhance your view of the cosmos. Check out our guide here.
