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Why Meteor Showers Will Light Up The Sky This December To February

As Earth orbits the Sun every year, it often passes through streams of dust and debris left behind by comets, or occasionally asteroids. These debris trails spread across space, and when Earth intersects them, we see meteor showers.

During the December-February period, Earth traverses several such debris streams. This overlap, combined with generally clearer, colder nights in many parts of the world, means this season tends to offer excellent conditions for stargazing and meteor-watching.

Because the paths we sweep through change slightly each year, and because debris streams vary in density, some seasons bring richer displays than others.

According to NASA's official website, the Quadrantid meteor shower will be active from December 26, 2025, to January 16, 2026. The peak night for viewing is expected between January 3 and 4, 2026. During this brief peak, skywatchers may witness a sharp burst of meteor activity.

Geminids Meteor Shower (December): According to NASA's official website, the Geminid meteor shower will light up the night sky on December 13 and 14, with up to 120 meteors per hour under dark skies.

Originating from asteroid 3200 Phaethon, these bright, colorful meteors will radiate near Jupiter in the eastern sky. Earlier, on December 7, the Moon and Jupiter will appear close in a striking conjunction.

Source:Ndtv

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