Formed in the constellation Gemini and fueled by fragments of the asteroid Phayton, these shooting stars present a unique spectacle. Recommendations so that you don’t miss a single detail.
Burnout. Photo: Unsplash.
This week, the attention of astronomy enthusiasts around the world will be focused on a dazzling celestial spectacle: Burnout Known as GeminidsIt will be displayed From 4th to 17th December. The culmination of the event, which promises to be an unforgettable experience, is scheduled for December 13 and 14.
Geminids derived from the constellation Gemini A Annual event caused by pieces of Asteroid Python. The asteroid’s peculiarity, with its comet-like tail and unusual blue hue, has puzzled experts since 1983.
however, This fact is not commonBecause asteroids have a more compact, rocky structure and less volatile elements in their composition than comets.
Burnout. Photo: Unsplash.
In these pieces enters Earth’s orbit In December, they are captured by gravity and collide with the atmosphere, resulting in Emits an intense light Due to friction. In this way, popular “Comets”.
This year’s meteor shower is expected to reach staggering speeds 150 shooting stars per hour During its peak. A particularly attractive element of Geminids Various colors They usually show up, which adds a magical touch to the experience.
Geminid meteors can provide Coloring, mainly white and yellow, but sometimes they appear in red, green or blue. In these cases, colors occur Presence of metalsLike sodium or calcium in asteroid fragments.
Burnout. Photo: Unsplash.
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How to observe them?
The Visibility This phenomenon is subject to various factors such as weather, light pollution and other atmospheric phenomena. Hence, a seeking advice from experts Dark and clear space To achieve optimal care.
For those unfamiliar with the Gemini constellation, applications Star charts as “Stellarium”Available on the Play Store and the AppStore, Geminids are useful tools for detecting radiation.
Although bright meteors can be seen from urban areas, it is important to enjoy this meteor shower to the fullest. Get away from city lights Avoid light pollution. If movement is not possible, it is better to position yourself in an elevated position.
Also, it is necessary Avoid exposure to light sources (especially white, emitted by cell phones) to allow maximum pupil dilation and adaptation for good night vision.
The app can detect Geminids radiation. Photo: Stellarium screenshot.
Ideally, the location chosen for observation should be clear of nearby obstacles, so that as much of the sky as possible can be contemplated. Even if the material that makes up the meteor hits the Earth at the point of radiation, it shoots up the stars They can appear anywhere.
After the Geminids pass, the meteor shower UrsidsComes from Comet 8P/Tuttle. Earth will cross its path From 17th to 26th DecemberThe moment of greatest activity is expected to occur during the night of December 22-23.
