Geminid meteor shower set to light up sky during weekend peak

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 3 min read 100% complete December 12, 2025 at 08:37 AM

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The Geminid meteor shower, considered one of the most spectacular celestial events, is set to peak this weekend. Visible worldwide, the Northern Hemisphere will have the best views. The shower originates from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, with meteors appearing as shooting stars when dust and gases burn up in Earth's atmosphere. Under clear, dark skies, viewers could potentially see up to 100 meteors per hour, making it the strongest shower of the year. This year's viewing conditions are expected to be ideal because the waning crescent Moon will rise late, allowing for several hours of dark skies.

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Key Player Opposition Context

Arecibo 50% 3200 Phaethon ×250% NASA ×280% Geminid meteor shower ×10100%

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geminid meteor shower 100% meteor shower 90% meteors 80% astronomy 70% 3200 phaethon 60% shooting stars 60% waning crescent moon 50% night sky 50% northern hemisphere 40% asteroid 40%

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BBC News - World

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Arecibo

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geminid meteor shower meteor shower meteors astronomy 3200 phaethon shooting stars waning crescent moon night sky northern hemisphere asteroid

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