SPACE
This is what the Quadrantids are like, the first meteor shower of 2024: when will they be and where can they be seen?
On January 4, people in the US will be able to observe one of the most spectacular meteor showers at its peak, known as the Quadrantids.
The Quadrantid meteor shower is the first of the year in the northern hemisphere, and it can be observed from December 28 to January 12. The peak of the shower, when it will be most visible, is expected to occur on January 3 and 4. With an activity of about 120 meteors per hour and a maximum speed of 41 kilometers per second, it is one of the most active meteor showers. The asteroid 2003 EH1 is responsible for the remains that cause this phenomenon. This is the second meteor shower of 2024 that will have the highest rate of visual meteors, making it easily observable without the need for special tools.
According to NASA, the Quadrantids have a much shorter “peak period” than other meteor showers. While most last around two days, the peak of the Quadrantids lasts hours, but “60 to as many as 200 Quadrantid meteors can be seen per hour under perfect conditions.” Additionally, the Quadrantid shower appears brighter and more spectacular because it is full of “fireballs [which are larger explosions of light and collar that can persist longer than the average meteor streak.”
Where can you see the Quadrantid rain?
The peak of the meteor shower is expected to occur around 13:00 (GMT) on January 4th. It is recommended to start observing the meteor shower in the early morning hours. Those in the southern hemisphere may experience hindered visibility due to the arrival of dawn. However, visibility conditions are expected to be favorable as the shower will align with the last quarter Moon.