Astronomers consistently place the Geminids meteor shower among the most dependable celestial events of the year.

This meteor shower is the result of a broad trail of debris, extending over a two-week period, through which Earth passes annually, sparking a noticeable increase in meteor sightings.

“Generally, a shooting star is created when a particle, often no larger than a grain of sand, burns up approximately 80 kilometers above Earth’s surface,” an expert explained.

While the meteors illuminate the sky from various directions, they seem to originate from a single point, a visual effect due to perspective, according to Horner.

He remarked, “This essentially means that the debris is colliding with Earth’s far side, and we’re not in the optimal position to observe it.”

Horner further noted, “The more elevated the radiant point is in the sky, the higher the number of meteors you are likely to witness.”

“It effectively means the dust is hitting the other side of the Earth and we’re facing the wrong way,” he said.

When is the best time to watch?

“The higher the radiant is in the sky … the more meteors you’ll see,” Horner said.

Under ideal dark-sky conditions with no moon, international observers can sometimes see up to 120 Geminid meteors per hour near peak.

Where should you watch from?

Organised viewing experiences, including guided night hikes, are also operating around the peak.

How can you maximise your chances?

“Find Orion (constellation) if you can and look about 40 degrees left or right. Pick an area that’s quite good, dark sky,” he said.