Spectacular view of the Quadrantidus meteor shower on January 2–3–4, 100 meteors per hour
Vadodara:
At the beginning of New Year 2026, astronomers are going to get a unique chance of celestial bliss. During January 2, 3 and 4, the sky will be a spectacular sight of the Quadrantidus meteor shower. This meteor shower will be visible in clear skies from today till January 12. About 100 meteors can be seen per hour under favorable conditions.
This meteor shower will be seen near the constellation Boots in the Northern Hemisphere. As the moon is only 11 percent illuminated, conditions will be favorable for observation.
These meteors are known for their brightness and colorful fireballs. After midnight to early dawn is the best time to watch the meteor shower. This sight can be seen clearly from the naked eye, deserted and far away from light pollution.
Why do meteor showers occur?
According to astronomy, comets are responsible for meteor showers. Comets leave dust particles along their path as they orbit the Sun. When the Earth passes through the path of these particles, these particles enter the atmosphere at high speed (about 30 km per second) and burn up due to friction. These bright flashes are known as meteors, fireballs or fireballs. Meteorites are recorded worldwide by the International Meteor Organization.
Observation and photography
Abroad, astronomers observe meteor showers by staying in coastal or mountainous, uninhabited areas. Binoculars with 10×50 magnification can be useful. The Bharat Jan Vigyan Jatha is also planning to capture these scenes through fireball photography and digital videography.
This is an opportunity not to be missed for astronomy buffs—a meteor “shower” in the sky as the new year begins will be a memorable experience.
On the first Poonam of the new year, a wonderful conjunction will form in the sky, the moon will appear brighter and larger than usual.
(Representative) Vadodara, dated 3The year 2026 is going to be a memorable one for astronomy lovers and science enthusiasts. Today, Saturday, January 3, a rare astronomical phenomenon will be seen in space....
