The Geminids are almost here. Actually they are here now. But the New Moon on the weekend of Dec. 13/14 will ensure dark skys (away from the cities) and excellent conditions for viewing 80 - 120 meteors per hour at its peak. You can look towards the left of the constellation Orion - which is pretty easy to find - after midnight for best viewing. No telescopes needed. Binoculars work to observe smoke trails. The Geminids are named after the constellation Gemini - where most of the meteors seem to originate. This meteor shower is known for its bright streaks of light and are one of the two brightest of the year (the other are the Perseids in August). The shower consists mostly of dust particles from the asteroid "3200 Phaethon." The Geminids are also only one of two showers that do not originate from a comet. For tips on meteor viewing click here (2009 video but still good advice!) Let's hope the skies are clear where you are for this one.... and the skies are clear :)
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