Ursid meteor shower 2025: Don’t miss it: December’s overlooked Ursid meteor shower peaks next week — here is date, time, place and all details
Best Time to Watch Ursids
According to one report, the Ursid meteor shower will peak overnight from December 21 to the early morning hours of December 22, with the best activity occurring around 5 a.m. EST, just before sunrise. This timing is ideal for North American observers but requires setting early alerts.
Why Are Ursids Often Missed by Skywatchers?
The Ursids are the least observed of the major annual meteor showers, as December nights in the Northern Hemisphere are bitterly cold, clear skies make the cold feel even more acute, and cloud cover often obscures the view, Fox Carolina reports. The peak also falls just before Christmas, when many people are busy with holiday plans and the rain cannot be seen from the Southern Hemisphere.
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What to Expect from the Ursid Meteor Shower?
The Ursids produce approximately 5-10 meteors per hour from a dark location at the summit. Outside the peak, activity may drop to less than one meteor per hour. According to a Fox Carolina report, at 9:39 p.m. PST on December 21 (12:39 p.m. EST on December 22), Earth may pass through a denser filament of debris from Comet Tuttle, which could briefly increase meteor activity.
Not every meteor seen will necessarily be an Ursid; Random meteors and small showers may occur simultaneously, providing identification of radiative matter for observers reporting their observations.
Where to Look: Turn north towards Kochab in Little Bear
Return north to capture the Ursids. The rain’s glow is located near the star Kochab in the constellation Ursa Minor, also known as the Little Dipper. In the early evening, around 8 p.m., the light sits low in the sky, but gets higher as the night progresses, offering better viewing opportunities. Also read: Can humans live forever? Bryan Johnson says artificial intelligence could make immortality possible by 2039
How Can You Position Yourself for the Best Viewing Experience?
Observers should avoid looking directly upwards. Instead, aim about halfway into the northern sky so the horizon doesn’t obstruct the view. Meteors will appear in the sky and you won’t have to look directly at the glow.
Thin Crescent Makes Watching Easier This Year
A thin crescent will appear on the evening of December 22, leaving the pre-dawn hours dark and conducive for meteor viewing, a rare advantage for the Ursids this year.
Tips for Staying Warm and Comfortable While Watching the Ursids
Dress warmly in layers with a blanket or sleeping bag, and bring hot drinks with you to keep you comfortable during the coldest hours of the night. A red flashlight is recommended to preserve night vision.
Find a Dark Spot and Observe for at least an Hour
Observe for at least an hour, as meteor activity can be unpredictable due to lulls and peaks. Choosing a dark location away from city lights will significantly increase visibility.
FAQ
What is the Ursid meteor shower?
The Ursids are a modest December meteor shower that appears to emanate from the constellation Little Dipper.
When does the Ursid meteor shower reach its peak?
Peak activity occurs on the night of December 21-22, with best viewing occurring around 5 a.m. in the morning.
