The night sky will light up this December with the arrival of the Geminid and Ursid meteor showers, based on the astronomical diary of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
The Geminid meteor shower will be active from December 4 to December 17, with its peak activity occurring on December 14.
"At its peak, Geminids is estimated to produce a nominal rate of about 120 meteors per hour. It is visible after around 7:12 p.m., when its radiant point, constellation Gemini, the Twins, rises above the eastern horizon, and is likely to produce its best displays around 2 a.m., when its radiant point is highest in the sky, " PAGASA stated. Also, the last quarter moon may interfere with the meteor shower observation.
For the Ursid meteor shower, it will be active from December 17 to 26, its peak activity occurs on December 23.
"Ursid’s radiant, constellation Ursa Minor, will be low in the sky, thus even at its peak, it is estimated to only observe about four meteors per hour." PAGASA mentioned.
PAGASA advises that in clear, moonless skies, dark viewing areas that are far from the city lights will maximize the viewing experience.
SOURCE: Manila Bulletin
PHOTO SOURCE: PAGASA
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