Massive Meteor Shower Lighting Up Michigan Skies

Even though it’s absolutely freezing outside, this might be one of those rare times that it’s actually worth stepping out at night for a bit.

The Geminids are officially active and building toward peak viewing on the night of December 13 into early December 14. With a clear sky, it’s one of the best meteor shows of the year. NASA says you could see around 40 to 50 meteors an hour during the peak.

According to Space.com, the Geminids come from tiny bits of debris left behind by a weird blue asteroid called 3200 Phaethon. When those pieces hit our atmosphere, they burn up and streak across the sky. Just look toward the eastern sky a couple of hours after sunset, and you’ll have a shot at seeing them anywhere.

How to See the Geminids Meteor Shower

To get the best view, find a spot away from bright lights, bundle up (like, really bundle up), and give your eyes about twenty minutes to adjust to the dark. And yeah, that only helps if you can handle the cold. Avoid staring at your phone during that time, or you will ruin your night vision. I'm sure that will end up being the biggest challenge.

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You won't need binoculars or a telescope or anything fancy. Just hope for a clear sky and have some patience.

If you can handle the cold for a little while, you might catch something pretty awesome.