Sky Spectacle: Meteor Shower and Supermoon Light Up January Nights

The Sky is Putting on a Show

Tonight, the sky is set to dazzle with a rare double feature: the peak of the Quadrantid meteor shower and the first supermoon of the year. But before you head outside, here's what you need to know.

The Quadrantids: A Brief but Intense Meteor Shower

The Quadrantids are no ordinary meteor shower. They are known for their brief but intense peak.

• Duration: Unlike other showers that last for days, the Quadrantids light up the sky for just a few hours.
• Meteor Rate: During this time, you can expect to see between 60 and 200 meteors per hour.
• Origin: Most meteor showers come from comets, but the Quadrantids originate from an asteroid called 2003 EH1.
• Asteroid Details:
• Size: About 2 miles across
• Orbit: Takes over 5.5 years to orbit the Sun
• Classification: Scientists think it might be a "dead comet" or a "rock comet," but it's currently classified as an asteroid.

Viewing Tips

Viewing the Quadrantids won't be easy this year due to the supermoon and weather conditions.

• Best Time: After midnight and before dawn.
• Location: Away from city lights.
• Direction: Face north, with the moon behind you.
• Preparation: Bundle up. It's cold out there, but a warm drink can make the experience more enjoyable.

The Supermoon: A Celestial Spectacle

While you're out there, don't forget to check out the supermoon, known as the Super Wolf Moon.

• Peak Illumination: 5:03 a.m. ET on January 3.
• Name Origin: The name "Wolf Moon" comes from the belief that wolves howl more during the first full moon of the year because they're hungry. However, wolves actually howl to communicate with their pack, define territory, and coordinate hunting.
• Other Names:
• Center Moon
• Cold Moon
• Frost Exploding Moon
• Canada Goose Moon
• Great Moon
• Greeting Moon
• Spirit Moon

What If You Miss the Quadrantids?

If you miss the Quadrantids, don't worry. The next big meteor showers, the Lyrids and Eta Aquariids, will happen in late April and May.

Enjoy the Sky Show

Grab a blanket, a warm drink, and enjoy the celestial spectacle.