Every year in December, the night sky treats us to one of its most dazzling spectacles: the Geminid meteor shower. This astronomical phenomenon, known for its intensity and brightness, is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the beauty of the universe.

What are the Geminids?
The Geminids are a meteor shower originating from the debris of asteroid 3200 Phaethon. Unlike most meteor showers, which come from comets, the Geminids originate from an asteroid, making them unique. When Earth passes through the dust and debris left behind by this asteroid in its orbit, fragments enter our atmosphere and burn up, creating bright streaks in the sky.

The best time to enjoy the show
The Geminid meteor shower reaches its peak between December 13 and 14. On clear nights without a full moon, it's possible to see up to 120 meteors per hour. The Geminids appear to radiate from the constellation Gemini, hence their name, but they can be seen anywhere in the sky.

Tips for observation

1. Find a place away from light pollution.

2. Bring comfortable clothes and blankets to keep warm.

3. Allow your eyes to adapt to the darkness for at least 20 minutes.

4. Avoid looking at bright screens so as not to interrupt your visual adaptation.

A moment to reflect
Watching the Geminid meteor shower is much more than just seeing shooting stars. It's an opportunity to reconnect with the vastness of the cosmos and appreciate the magic of our universe. Each luminous streak reminds us how small we are, but also how special.