It's that time of year again! The Geminid Meteor Showers are expected to light up the sky this week. But, the question is will we catch a good glimpse despite rain in the forecast.
The sun will set at 4:28 today. That, along with the waxing crescent moon will allow skies to become dark enough for ample viewing.
What are Geminid Meteor Showers?
The Geminids are left over debris from Asteroid 3200 Phaeton. The meteor showers are known for their intensity since they were first seen back in 1862. Therefore, you can expect up to 120 multicolored meteor showers per hour falling at over 79,000 mph.
The Geminids peak Thursday night into Friday. However, due to clouds and rain in the forecast, tonight will be the best time to view them.
Tips for viewing the Geminids
- Allow your eyes time to adjust to the dark sky
- Go away from city lights
- Lay flat on your back
- Give yourself about 45 minutes to an hour to get the most out of your viewing experience
If you don't get a chance to the see the Geminid meteor showers, you'll have another shot in 2020. Next year's full moon will illuminate the night sky making it difficult to see the Geminids.
In the meantime, enjoy today's sunshine. Highs are expected to reach 41 degrees this afternoon. However, wind chills will make it feel a few degrees colder.
Sunshine will give way to increasing clouds with a low of 31 degrees tonight. Unseasonably chilly weather returns tomorrow with highs in the upper 30s. There’s also a slight chance of rain/snow showers throughout the day.
Milder temperatures are slated to arrive on Friday along with the chance of rain Friday night. Anticipate more rain on Saturday with a high of 51 degrees followed by gradual clearing on Sunday. Much cooler air also arrives early next week with highs returning to the 40s.