Best Time to View Quadrantids Meteor Shower in Southern California
The annual Quadrantids meteor shower is set to light up the skies over Southern California over the next two days, offering a spectacular show for stargazers. Astronomical observers are predicting peak visibility starting Friday morning and continuing into Saturday, with around 25 meteors per hour expected to streak across the heavens.
When and Where to Watch
According to Ed Krupp, director of Griffith Observatory, the best time to catch a glimpse of the meteor shower in Southern California will be Friday night heading into Saturday morning, from around midnight to 5:30 a.m., possibly extending to 6 a.m. To locate the meteor shower, look for the constellation Boötes in the northeastern sky around 10 p.m., and by 3 a.m., the showers will be nearly directly overhead.
Krupp advises against using binoculars or a telescope, as they can limit your field of view. He recommends relying on your eyes for the best viewing experience, offering a cinematic widescreen perspective of the meteor shower.
Tips for the Best Experience
For optimal viewing, head to a dark area away from city lights and light pollution. NASA suggests packing winter weather gear, along with a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair for a comfortable viewing experience. Krupp even recommends desert viewing for an ideal stargazing setting.
The Science Behind the Show
The source of the Quadrantids meteor shower is believed to be the asteroid 2003 EH1, discovered by research scientist Peter Jenniskens in 2003. However, the nature of 2003 EH1 remains somewhat mysterious, with uncertainty whether it is a true meteor or a “dead comet” that has lost its volatile ice and gas.
While the Griffith Observatory will not be hosting any special viewing events due to the best viewing conditions being away from city lights, enthusiasts are encouraged to venture out and witness the celestial spectacle on their own. So, don’t miss this opportunity to witness nature’s fireworks display in the comfort of your own backyard or desert vantage point!
