Best Time to Watch the Ursids
The Ursid meteor shower will peak overnight from December 21 into the early morning of December 22, with the best activity around 5 am EST, just before sunrise, as per a report. This timing is ideal for North American observers, though it does require setting an early alarm.
Why the Ursids Are Often Missed by Skywatchers
The Ursids are the least observed of the major annual meteor showers, as December nights in the Northern Hemisphere are bitterly cold, clear skies make the chill feel even sharper, and cloud cover often blocks the view, as per a Fox Carolina report. The peak also falls just before Christmas, when many people are busy with holiday plans and the shower is invisible from the Southern Hemisphere.
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What to Expect from the Ursid Meteor Shower
The Ursids produce about 5–10 meteors per hour from a dark location at peak. Outside the peak, activity can drop to fewer than one meteor per hour. On December 21 at around 9:39 pm PST (12:39 am EST on December 22), Earth may pass through a denser filament of debris from comet Tuttle, which could briefly boost meteor activity, as per the Fox Carolina report.
Not every meteor seen will necessarily be an Ursid; random meteors and minor showers may appear at the same time, so identifying the radiant matters for observers reporting their sightings.
Where to Look: Face North Toward Kochab in Ursa Minor
To catch the Ursids, face north. The shower’s radiant lies near the star Kochab in the constellation Ursa Minor, also known as the Little Dipper. Early in the evening, around 8 pm, the radiant sits low in the sky, but as the night progresses, it rises higher, offering better viewing opportunities.Also read: Can humans live forever? Bryan Johnson says AI could make immortality possible by 2039
How to Position Yourself for the Best Viewing Experience
Observers should avoid looking straight overhead. Instead, aim about halfway up the northern sky so that the horizon doesn’t block the view. Meteors will appear across the sky, and there’s no need to stare directly at the radiant.
Thin Crescent Moon Makes Viewing Easier This Year
A thin crescent moon will appear on the evening of December 22, leaving the pre-dawn hours dark and favorable for meteor watching, a rare advantage for the Ursids this year.
Tips to Stay Warm and Comfortable While Watching the Ursids
Dress warmly, in layers, with blankets or a sleeping bag, and bring hot drinks to stay comfortable during the coldest part of the night. A red flashlight is recommended to preserve night vision.
Find a Dark Spot and Commit to At Least an Hour of Observation
Commit to at least an hour of observation, as meteor activity can be unpredictable, with lulls and peaks. Choosing a dark location away from city lights will dramatically improve visibility.
FAQs
What is the Ursid meteor shower?
The Ursids are a modest December meteor shower that appears to radiate from the Little Dipper constellation.
When does the Ursid meteor shower peak?
Peak activity occurs overnight on December 21–22, with the best viewing around 5 a.m. EST.