TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Geminid meteor shower will light up the skies, offering a celestial spectacle for stargazers as the best viewing times span is expected from Friday (Dec. 13) night to Saturday early morning, said a former head of the weather bureau. The Taipei Astronomical Museum (台北市立天文館) emphasized that as the radiant point ascends, the number of visible meteors will increase, potentially reaching 150 meteors per hour. Bright fireballs may also appear during this period, adding to the spectacle.
The museum also advised that moonlight might reduce visibility. However, choosing a location away from moonlight and light pollution can still offer a chance to witness a significant number of meteors. Even outside the peak period, observers can expect 50-60% of the peak rate, making the early hours of Saturday and Sunday ideal for viewing.
Cheng Ming-dean (鄭明典) announced on Facebook that the peak of this year's shower is expected at 9:26 a.m. on Saturday. The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 氣象署) reported that the radiant point will rise from the northeast horizon around 7 p.m. on Friday. By 1:50 a.m. on Saturday, it will reach a zenith angle of about 82 degrees. The meteor shower will continue until Dec. 20, with an estimated peak rate of nearly 150 meteors per hour.
