The Geminids meteor shower, often the most dramatic of the yearly meteor showers, peaks late this week. Unlike most meteor showers, the Geminids are thought to originate from an asteroid, named 3200 Phaeton, rather than a comet. The video above from NASA explains the discovery of 3200 Phaetons’ association with the Geminids and the unique nature of this meteor shower. As the Earth intersects the asteroid’s orbit, tiny particles shed from the asteroid burn up as they collide with our planet’s atmosphere. The shower is expected to hit its height on Thursday, and meteor showers are generally best in the hours around midnight and after. Dress warmly, and enjoy the display.
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