Ursida meteor stream on December 22: when and where to observe

On the eve of the New Year holidays Russians will be able to observe the second meteor stream of winter - Ursids. In 2024, its peak will be on December 22. What this astronomical phenomenon is known and where it is best to observe, tell "Izvestia".

Ursida meteor stream in 2024 - about the phenomenon

Meteor streams are called a cluster of cosmic bodies that are formed as a result of the combustion of meteors in the Earth's atmosphere. They get their names in honor of the constellation where their radiant is located, that is, the area of the celestial sphere, from which meteors seem to fly out, spreading across the sky.

Radiant Ursid located in the constellation of the Little Bear, in the upper part of its "dipper", not far from Polaris. The originator of the stream is considered to be comet Tuttle, discovered by astronomers in the late XVIII century. This is not a very bright comet, which was previously observed in early 2008.

The stream itself is not too intense. Usually there are about ten meteors per hour, moving across the sky at a speed of about 32 km / s. Although there have been more powerful flashes before. So, in 1945 and 1986, their number reached 120 and 100 respectively.

Observe the astronomical phenomenon can be annually at the end of the year. In the current year, its activity began on December 17 and will last a little more than a week, until December 26.

How to observe the meteor shower Ursida December 22

The Ursids will reach their peak on the night of December 22. According to the Moscow Planetarium, up to 10 meteors per hour are expected, as last year. However, observation may be hindered by the Moon, which will be more than half illuminated during this period, approaching its full phase. Therefore, it is better to observe with a telescope or other optical instruments before the rising of the Earth's satellite.

Appear "shooting stars" can appear in any part of the sky. To see the maximum number of meteors, you should find a place away from the city lights. It is also desirable to study the weather forecast for the day of peak Ursid. If the sky will be cloudy, it is unlikely to see anything. But if the weather is clear, you can continue observations the next day.

The location of the Ursid radiant is easy to find out with a special application. For example, Star Walk 2 or Sky Tonight. Such services are convenient because all space events are displayed in real time. In addition, you can set a reminder not to miss the astronomical phenomenon of interest.

Earlier "Izvestia" told about the Geminid meteor stream, which could be observed in mid-December.