We found a way for you to begin 2023 with the stars – quite literally! The first major meteor shower of the year – clearly visible to the naked eye – will take place on January 3rd 2023. Read on to know all the details:
Quadrantids Meteor Shower On January 3rd, 2023
According to the Dubai Astronomy Group, the Quadrantids Meteor Shower – the first major one of the year – is also one of the most intense meteor showers to view. It is among the strongest and most spectacular meteor showers of the year, and is expected to be visible in the UAE on January 3, just a few days into 2023.
Just recently the UAE Skies Were Illuminated With 100 Shooting Stars Per Hour On Dec 14th & 15th. UAE residents were astonished by the sheer beauty of the sky, and we can’t wait to see the Quadrantids shower next.
The Quadrantids Meteor Shower is characterized by a sharp peak lasting a few hours, during which time meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Boötes, near the Big Dipper. In 2004, astronomer Peter Jenniskens determined that the Quadrantids meteors are likely the remnants of an object called 2003 EH1. However, it is uncertain whether this object is the core of a dead comet or a “rock comet,” which is an asteroid that crumbles and turns to dust as it approaches the Sun.
How To View The Quadrantids Meteor Shower?
The celestial event is expected to reach its strongest peak on the night of January 3-4, with the potential to display a maximum intensity of 110 meteors per hour under clear skies. This meteor shower is known for its strength and consistency, and it will continue until January 5.
Observers are encouraged to view this celestial event from a dark location with an unobstructed view of the sky. You do not need any special equipment to view the shower, and is visible from the naked eye.
Sheeraz Ahmad Awan, General Manager of Dubai Astronomy Group said, “This will be visible from anywhere in the UAE; all you need is a dark location and you should be able to see it. We have been a tad bit unlucky with the meteor showers over the last few months because one of the biggest light pollutants of the night sky is the moon, and on that day, the moon will be rising later in the night.”
Get Up, Close & Personal With The Meteor Shower With Dubai Astronomy Group
The Dubai Astronomy Group will be organising a trip to Al Qudra on January 3rd 11 pm to 4 am for sky gazers wishing to enjoy the meteor shower. They will provide telescopes for participants to observe celestial objects including the moon, Mars, and Saturn during the event.
If you do plan to go to Al Qudra, make sure you wear something warm, as it can get quite cold at night.
