If you’re stepping outside over the festive period, don’t forget to look skyward. The Ursid Meteor Shower should be visible between 17th and 26th December but reaches its peak on the nights of 22–23 December, offering a subtle but magical celestial display just before Christmas.
Unlike the more famous showers, the Ursids are quiet and elusive, producing only a handful of meteors an hour. But that’s part of their charm. These shooting stars streak from the constellation Ursa Minor — home of the North Star, cutting through crisp winter skies when most people are fast asleep.
🌌 How to see them
- Head outside after midnight and before dawn
- Find a dark spot away from streetlights
- Look north, towards the Little Bear (Ursa Minor)
- No telescope needed — just patience and warm layers
The Ursids are caused by debris from Comet 8P/Tuttle, and while sparse, they’re known for the occasional bright fireball, a rewarding surprise for anyone watching at the right moment.
So if the skies are clear, wrap up warm, grab a hot drink, and take a few quiet minutes to watch the universe put on a gentle Christmas show. 🌠
Will you be keeping an eye on the night sky this December?
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