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First meteor shower of 2024 set to continue for a few more days

A meteor shower is taking place above Colorado right now, set to last until Jan. 16.

The Quadrantids are known for having the potential to be the strongest meteor shower of the year, though that rarely proves to be the case due to poor early-January weather and a short six-hour length of peak activity, per the American Meteor Society.

Average hourly meteor rates in ideal conditions are 25 meteors per hour, with these meteors often lacking the vibrant tails that these celestial objects are known for. That being said, the Quadrantids are known for producing plenty of fireballs.

Unfortunately, the peak of this meteor shower has already passed, taking place on the night of Jan. 3 and in the early morning hours on Jan. 4. But have no fear – there might still be a chance to spot a few fireballs moving across the sky over the next few days if skies are clear. Plus, the moon’s illumination is decreasing, which will make for easier spotting, dropping from 56% on Jan. 3 to 37% on Jan. 5, per MoonGiant.com.

So there you have it – look above over the next couple days if you can find a spot between the clouds and you might just happen to spot a meteor cruising through the sky. This will be the last major meteor shower until April.

 

Photo Credit: bjdlzx (iStock).

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