A meteor shower is a celestial event during which multiple meteors are observed to radiate from a specific point in the night sky over a short period of time. These meteors are typically the result of Earth passing through the debris left behind by a comet or, less commonly, an asteroid. As the Earth travels along its orbit, it encounters these specks of dust and particles, which enter the Earth’s atmosphere at high speeds, usually between 11 and 72 kilometers per second. When they collide with the atmosphere, they produce bright streaks of light, known as “shooting stars,” due to the intense heat generated by friction with the air. Meteor showers are usually predictable and occur annually, with well-known examples such as the Perseids, Geminids, and Leonids. The intensity of meteor activity can vary, with some years showcasing a spectacular display and others being more subdued. Observers often seek dark skies away from urban light pollution to enhance visibility during these events.
The Quadrantids: A Dazzling Display in the Night Sky Every January, stargazers eagerly anticipate one of the year’s most dazzling meteor showers. The Quadrantids, known for their impressive meteor count,…