Get ready for the most spectacular astronomical event of January; the arrival of the Quadrantid meteor shower. The spectacle is expected to paint 130 shooting stars per hour across the sky. Here is where to watch them.
In the early hours of January 4th, a spectacular phenomenon is occurring in the sky; the Quadrantid meteor shower. Under ideal conditions, this meteor shower paints the northern sky with an average of 130 shooting stars. The parent object behind this celestial show is a tiny asteroid with a mere 3-kilometre diameter, believed to be the observed core of a comet by Far Eastern astronomers 500 years ago. Every year in early January, the dust cloud trailing this object intersects Earth's orbit around the Sun, creating this mesmerizing display.
The Quadrantids are best observed on Thursday in the hours preceding dawn. While the Moon's light may be a challenge, the shower is rich in bright fireballs, making it worthwhile to wake up early and witness shooting stars. For additional details, you can contact the Svábhegy Observatory (here). To have the best chances for observation, we recommend secluded places further away from the city. Near Budapest, you stand a good chance of spotting shooting stars around Budakeszi Wildlife Park, Hármashatár Hill, Anna Rét at Normafa, and Hűvösvölgyi Nagyrét.
Source: MTI
Cover photo: Getty Images
