Get ready to make a Christmas wish, folks, because the celestial fireworks are back!
The Ursids meteor shower, the grand finale of this year's meteoric spectacle, is gracing our night skies with its shimmering "shooting stars".
This cosmic extravaganza - which began on December 17 and will continue to dazzle us until December 26 - will reach its peak tonight. Mark your calendars for the night of Thursday, December 21, through Friday, December 22, when the Ursids meteor shower is set to put on its most spectacular show.
Now, you might be wondering, how does the Ursids meteor shower stack up against its recent celestial predecessor, the Geminids? Well, the Geminids, which lit up our skies earlier this month, boasted over 100 brilliant "shooting stars" in one of 2023's most robust meteor showers.
But don't let that burst your celestial bubble! The Ursids may not be quite as star-studded, offering around 10 meteors per hour at its peak. However, during its prime, this meteor shower can sometimes deliver up to 25 meteors per hour, as confirmed by the American Meteor Society.
What's even more exciting this year is that the peak of the Ursids aligns with December's solstice. While these two celestial events may seem unrelated, they share an intriguing connection. Earth's journey around the sun, as it reaches the point where the northern axis tilts farthest away from the sun, leads to both events. This journey also carries our planet through the dust and debris left behind in the inner solar system by a comet.
Now, what exactly causes these breathtaking "shooting stars"? The answer is dust and dirt particles colliding with Earth's atmosphere. While comets often serve as the source for these celestial wonders, the Ursids have their own cosmic partner in crime—comet 8P/Tuttle. This comet, which takes a leisurely 13.6 years to complete its orbit around the sun, was last spotted in our celestial neighborhood in 2021. It's expected to make a triumphant return in 2035.
Back in 2008, scientists got an up-close and personal look at this cosmic traveler using the now-retired Arecibo Observatory's colossal radio dish. Their findings revealed that comet 8P/Tuttle is no ordinary space rock; it's about 2.8 miles (4.5 km) in diameter and shaped like a peanut.
So, where's the best seat in the house to catch this meteoric performance? Well, stargazers are urged to focus on the constellation Ursa Minor, whose stars beautifully encircle Polaris, the North Star. To catch this celestial show, simply gaze northward. Here's some extra good news—Ursa Minor is a circumpolar constellation, meaning it remains visible throughout the night. This makes it perfect for early bird and night owl meteor watchers alike.
However, there's a tiny cosmic wrinkle to keep in mind. During the Ursids' peak, a waxing gibbous moon will be shining brightly, which isn't ideal for stargazing. But fear not! Bundle up, exercise a bit of patience, and spend an hour outside before dinnertime, leaving your binoculars or telescopes indoors.
With a bit of luck and a sprinkle of stardust, you might just catch a glimpse of a meteor or two gracing the northern sky. So, make a wish, and let the Ursids meteor shower light up your night!