Hoosiers Could See One of the Year’s Brightest Meteor Shows This Weekend

Bundle up and get ready! Stargazers are in for a spectacular show this weekend as the Geminid Meteor Shower reaches its annual peak.

What Makes the Geminids So Spectacular

Known as one of the most reliable and vibrant meteor showers of the entire year, the Geminids will streak across the sky with up to 120 meteors per hour.

What You’ll See During the Shower

Often called shooting stars, meteors are actually small pieces of space rock burning up as they enter Earth's atmosphere. According to NASA, that bright flash you see isn't the rock itself but the glow of superheated air as it tears through the sky. When dozens of these streaks appear in a short period of time, we call it a meteor shower.

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Despite how dramatic they look, NASA reassures that meteoroids are typically tiny and burn up quickly, posing virtually no danger to Earth.

When and Where to Watch in Indiana

The Geminids are active throughout much of December, but the shower will peak on Saturday, December 13, and continue into early Sunday, December 14. Meteors usually begin appearing around 9 or 10 p.m., making this one of the more family-friendly showers to view.

Indiana State Parks is hosting a free Geminid Meteor Shower and telescope-viewing event at Monroe Lake’s Fairfax State Recreation Area, near Bloomington. The event will take place on Friday evening, December 12, from 6:30 to 7:30 pm ET at the Fairfax SRA swimming beach. Free hot cocoa will be available.

Those who plan to attend are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs and dress in warm layers. Cloudy skies could force the cancellation of the event, so those interested in attending should check the event page before heading out.

Read More: How to Bundle Up Against Extreme Cold Weather

Safety Tips for the Arctic Cold

The National Weather Service warns that a wave of Arctic air will settle into Indiana this weekend, bringing the coldest temperatures of the season so far. Highs will struggle to reach the 20s, and sub-zero wind chills are expected Saturday and Sunday.

Viewing Tips for the Best Experience

If you plan to watch the meteor shower, definitely bundle up and use caution. For best viewing, choose a dark location away from city lights. Give your eyes about 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness, and avoid looking at phone screens or flashlights.

You won’t need binoculars or a telescope to see the meteors. You just need a little patience and clear skies, and do be cautious about where you park or sit to avoid trespassing on private property.

Whether you head to Monroe Lake or step outside in your own backyard, take a moment to look up, breathe in the cold winter air, and enjoy one of the most magical night-sky events of the year.