Quadrantids meteor shower 2025: When, where, and how to watch in India

The Quadrantids Meteor Shower will reach its peak on January 4, 2025, offering a stunning celestial display. This annual meteor shower, known for its brief but intense peak, will be visible from December 27, 2024, to January 16, 2025. Unlike most meteor showers that last for a couple of days, the Quadrantids peak in just a few hours.

What Are the Quadrantids?

The Quadrantids Meteor Shower is unique in that it peaks for only a short time—on January 4, 2025—due to the Earth's crossing of a thin stream of particles at a perpendicular angle. During peak hours, up to 60 to 200 meteors may be visible per hour under perfect conditions. The shower is also known for its bright fireball meteors, which are larger and more colorful than typical meteors, often persisting longer in the sky.

The Quadrantids are named after the now-defunct constellation Quadrans Muralis, introduced by French astronomer Jerome Lalande in 1795. Although the constellation is no longer recognized, the meteor shower retains its name. These meteors originate from the 2003 EH1 asteroid, which is considered a "dead comet" or "rock comet."

Visibility in India

The Quadrantids Meteor Shower will be visible in India, especially on the nights of January 3 and 4. According to Sumit Srivastava, Senior Scientific Officer at the Indira Gandhi Planetarium in Lucknow, observers can expect to see around 80 to 120 meteors per hour, with optimal viewing during the early morning hours. The planetarium has set up telescopes for public observation, offering a great opportunity for skywatchers to witness this dazzling event.

How to Watch the Quadrantids Meteor Shower in India

To catch the best view of the Quadrantids, head to a location away from city lights, preferably in the early hours before dawn. The clear winter skies will offer a great opportunity to spot the meteors. Make sure to dress warmly, as it can get cold during the night, especially in the northern regions.

This year's Quadrantids Meteor Shower promises to be a memorable event, with bright fireballs and frequent meteors lighting up the sky. Don’t miss your chance to witness this spectacular cosmic phenomenon!