Like every year, the sky at the beginning of January will be crossed by a shower of shooting stars, the Quadrantids. Where do they come from, and how can we observe them? We explain everything to you.
“One of the best annual meteor showers”. This is how NASA describes the Quadrantid rain, which crosses the sky at the start of each year, and will reach its peak in 2025 on the nights of January 2 to 4. Less known than the Perseids of July, the Quadrantids can nevertheless offer an impressive spectacle to amateurs and “achieve a zenith hourly rate of 120 (i.e. 120 shooting stars per hour, in the best conditions)”, specifies the Cité de l’Espace de Toulouse website. They are particularly famous for their brilliant meteors, shaped like fireballs which “can persist longer than an average meteor trail”, details NASA.
The light of the moon, in its first crescent at 11%, should not cause any interference, especially since it will set around 8 p.m. On the other hand, clouds could hinder observation.
How to view them?
To put the odds on your side, NASA recommends choosing a location far from the city and any light pollution. Even if the peak of the Quadrantids is relatively short (only a few hours), still arm yourself with patience, and given the cool temperatures, a good coat or even a blanket. The position lying on the back, “feet facing northeast”, will be the most suitable. “In less than 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adapt and you will start seeing meteors”, then assures NASA.
published on January 1 at 6:14 p.m., Marion Gauvain, 6Medias
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