The Quadrantid Meteor Shower is currently underway, having peaked last night and is expected to peak again over night tonight.
With the new moon’s dim light the viewing conditions will be favourable, says Space.com.
Although not as well-known as other meteor showers, the Quadrantid is expected to average 120 meteors per hour at its peak. But while these meteors are fainter and easier to miss, Space says the Quadrantid can “produce fireballs with giant, glowing tails highlighting the meteors’ paths across the sky.”
#Quadrantid Meteor Shower, One of the Year’s Best, Is Peaking Now https://t.co/xiw41u3kks pic.twitter.com/nl6tjQNhD2
— SPACE.com (@SPACEdotcom) January 4, 2017
Tips for spotting the meteor shower
When looking for the meteor shower, you will need to look for the constellation Bootes. According to Space, the easiest way to find it is to look north for the Big Dipper, then follow the “arc” of the Big Dipper’s handle across the sky to the red giant star Arcturus, which anchors the bottom of Bootes.
Even if you catch the shower at an off-peak moment, the rates of about 25 meteors per hour are still expected. You won’t need binoculars, just find a dark sky and give your eyes about 20 to 30 minutes to adjust.
And of course, dress warmly.
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