Get ready for one of the coolest space events of the year—the Geminid meteor shower! This meteor shower might be the most spectacular one you see all year. It’s all thanks to an asteroid named Phaethon.
As Phaethon travels around the Sun, tiny rocks break off its surface, creating a cloud of rocky particles in space. Every year, Earth passes through part of this cloud. When these rocks enter Earth’s atmosphere, they burn up and create bright streaks in the sky, which we call meteors.
The Geminid meteor shower is unique because most meteor showers come from comets. However, Phaethon doesn’t look like a typical comet; it looks more like a big rock. Astronomers are still trying to figure out why Phaethon is so special.
You can enjoy this amazing event around December 14th. So, mark your calendar and get ready for some exciting meteor hunting!
Create Your Own Meteor Shower: Gather some small rocks or pebbles and a flashlight. In a dark room, have an adult help you shine the flashlight while you drop the rocks one by one in front of the light. Watch how the shadows and light create streaks, just like meteors in the sky! Think about how the rocks from Phaethon create bright streaks when they enter Earth’s atmosphere.
Starry Night Observation: On a clear night, go outside with a family member and look up at the sky. Try to spot any meteors or shooting stars. Count how many you see and make a wish on each one! Discuss with your family why these meteors are special and how they come from Phaethon.
Draw and Share: Draw a picture of what you imagine the Geminid meteor shower looks like. Use lots of colors to show the bright streaks in the sky. Share your drawing with your friends or family and explain why the Geminid meteor shower is different from other meteor showers.
