One Of The Biggest Meteor Showers Of The Year Will Be Visible In Illinois In December

There's going to be a meteor shower in Illinois this month that is worth staying up for all night or setting your alarm for. This annual event is the most spectacular show that the night sky puts on, and it's sure to be one of the best times for stargazing in Illinois. Whether you're an experienced astronomer or just like trying to identify constellations, this is going to be a treat for everyone. Continue reading to learn all about the Geminid meteor shower in Illinois.

No matter what part of Illinois you reside in, you may have a chance to see the Geminid meteor shower between December 14-15, 2022.

Everyone is hoping it will be a clear night for this annual celestial event. Though the entire world will have access to the show, the northern hemisphere is projected to get the best views.

The peak viewing time for Illinois and all states is about 2 a.m. For those in areas with no light pollution, it is estimated that more than 100 meteors will be witnessed per hour.

The meteors look like giant, bold, and bright streaks of light in the sky. They are quick, so watchers need to keep their eyes to the skies.

Known as the highlight of the meteor season, the Geminid meteor shower in Illinois is going to be very special this year. The celestial event is especially unique because it is associated with an asteroid rather than a meteor.

The asteroid is known as 3200 Phaethon and it orbits the Sun at a rate of 1.4 years. The astronomical event is named for the constellation in the sky from which it seems to come.

Typically, it seems that the higher the Gemini constellation is in the sky, the more lights you're bound to see.

If you head out in the middle of the night to witness this extraordinary event, be sure to dress accordingly. It is most likely that the majority of the state will be experiencing freezing temperatures at this time.

For more like this, check out these eight space-themed attractions in Illinois.

Are you looking forward to the Geminid meteor shower in Illinois? Have you seen it in previous years? If so, we'd love to hear from you. Please share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments!

Looking for even more surreal beauty in Illinois? Check out our list of stunning places in Illinois you thought only existed in your imagination.