The Geminids meteor shower is one of the most reliable and effective meteor showers of the year, and 2025 will be no exception. According to data for this year, it is active in the period approximately December 4 to 17.
Maximum activity is predicted for the night between December 13 and 14, with the peak expected around 08:00 UT (so early morning of December 14).
Under ideal conditions - dark, clear sky without light pollution and with minimal Moon interference - Geminids can be exceptionally visible: the expected Zenith-Hourly Rate (ZHR) is up to 120-150 meteors per hour.
Why are Geminids exceptional
Unlike most other showers that originate from disintegrating comets, Geminids have an unusual - rocky - background. According to current knowledge, their source is asteroid 3200 Phaethon.
The entry speed into the atmosphere is approximately 35 km/s, which means that meteors are relatively slow and often appear as bright, slowly moving bodies - ideal for naked-eye observation.
The shower also tends to produce fireballs and colorful trails, increasing visual attractiveness for observers.
When and how to prepare for Geminids 2025
Since when - since December 4, it is possible to see occasional meteors, although there will be only a minimum. An interesting period begins around December 10-11, when the frequency starts to rise.
Peak - the night of December 13-14 is the most advantageous. It is worth being outside after dusk, but the peak should be around 2 - 4 am local time when the shower is most intense and the radiant is highest.
Radiant Radiant - the point from which meteors appear to fly out is located in the constellation of Gemini. When the constellation is above the horizon, meteors can be visible almost anywhere in the sky.
- Best times for connections - the best times for connections in the NE - SW axes: 4 to 6 and 21 to 23 UTC, E - W: none, NW - SE: 2 to 5 and 19 to 21 UTC, S - S: 19 to 22 and 2 to 7 UTC.
For the best experience, astronomers recommend finding a dark spot away from light pollution, giving your eyes time to adjust to the darkness, and waiting - often just lying down and watching the sky with a wide view is enough.
What to expect in winter 2025
The year 2025 offers Geminids under relatively favorable conditions. According to forecasts, the Moon will be just before or after full moon, which means that light interference could be lower at the time of maximum than in other years.
Thanks to the long winter nights, you will have several hours for observation - an ideal time to enjoy the meteor shower in its full glory. Geminids remain one of the most attractive opportunities of the year.