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(meteorobs) NAMN Target Shower: Geminids
Hi Everyone,
The target major shower for December is the Geminids. The Geminids are known
for their high rates, and are very reliable from year to year, producing up
to 80 to 100 meteors per hour.
The Geminids are visible for one week prior to maximum, but the great
majority of activity is limited to December 13 and 14. The peak has shown
slight signs of variability in time and maximum rates, and the true maximum
may fall a few hours before or after the published time. This is one reason
you may have noticed the different predictions among the various meteor
groups for the time of maximum. I suggest as a minimum, observers observe on
the mornings listed above so as to not miss the show.
The Geminids produce many bright meteors however persistent trains are rare.
Near maximum there are many fireballs with vivid colors, especially bright
yellow-orange meteors. The parent object of the Geminids was unknown until
recently. However, the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, discovered by IRAS (Infrared
Astronomical Satellite) in 1983, is now known to be the source of the
Geminid meteors and it is also the only non-cometary object associated with
the evolution of a major annual stream.
Characteristics of the GEMs:
Geminids (GEM) Active: Dec 07-Dec 17
Radiant: 112 +33 Diameter: 5 Drift: +0.97 -0.08
Velocity: 35 km/s Population Index: 2.6 ZHR: 110
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For more information and to submit reports, please contact me at:
MeteorObs@charlestondot net
Good luck!
Mark Davis
NAMN Coordinator