Geminid Meteor Shower Peaks Saturday Night, Connecticut Snow Hinders Viewing

This weekend’s sky show is shaping up to be one of the year’s best. But, in classic New England style, the weather just might throw a wrench in those plans.

The annual Geminid meteor shower peaks Saturday night into early Sunday. NASA says you could see up to 120 meteors per hour if the sky cooperates.

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Here in Connecticut, though, clouds, rain, and even a bit of snow could make it tough for skywatchers from Hartford to New Haven—and honestly, anyone hoping for a clear view.

Geminid Meteor Shower 2024: What Connecticut Needs to Know

The Geminids have a reputation for reliability. They produce bright, fast streaks that even casual observers can spot.

Some showers fizzle out, but the Geminids usually deliver when the sky’s clear. Backyard astronomers from Bridgeport to Norwich look forward to this one every year.

NASA says the shower stays active until December 21. The sweet spot, though, is Saturday night through early Sunday morning.

That’s when you’re most likely to catch the highest number of meteors—if clouds don’t get in the way.

Peak Timing and Viewing Window

The best time to watch? Late evening through the pre-dawn hours. Folks in Stamford, Waterbury, and other Connecticut towns usually get the most action after midnight.

That’s when the radiant point climbs higher, and our side of the Earth turns into the debris stream. NASA mentions that the shower is visible worldwide, but the exact peak can shift a bit depending on where you are.

Here in Connecticut, stepping outside between midnight and 4 a.m. gives you the best shot—assuming the clouds give you a break.

Connecticut Weather: Clouds, Rain, and Late-Night Snow

Unfortunately, the forecast isn’t looking great. Clouds should build up by late Saturday afternoon, with rain rolling in during the evening.

That rain may change to snow around midnight. So, from Danbury to New London, precipitation could show up just as the Geminids peak.

Forecasters expect one to two inches of snow in northern Connecticut. Southern spots could see two to four inches.

Even with just a light snow, thick clouds from a winter system can block out the meteors almost completely.

Where Skies Might Offer a Brief Break

Still, sometimes there’s a little hope. Temporary breaks can pop up between cloud bands or showers.

Rural Litchfield County and northeastern Connecticut—already great for dark skies—might luck out and catch a brief clearing. But that really depends on how the storm tracks and what time it hits.

If you’re determined, keep an eye on local radar and satellite images. Checking short-term forecasts from the National Weather Service or your favorite local meteorologist might help you spot a gap in the clouds.

How to Watch the Geminids if Skies Cooperate

If you manage to find clear skies, NASA suggests heading somewhere dark, far from city and street lights. That means leaving the glow of Hartford, New Haven, or Bridgeport and seeking out quieter, rural spots.

Once you get there, turn off any bright lights and stash your phone. Give your eyes at least 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness—it makes a big difference.

Where to Look and How to Position Yourself

The meteors seem to shoot out from the constellation Gemini, which rises in the east and moves across the sky overnight. NASA recommends facing southeast, but honestly, you don’t need to stare right at Gemini.

Looking 45 to 90 degrees away from the radiant usually makes the meteors look longer and more dramatic. For comfort, lie on your back with your feet pointing south.

Dress in layers—hat and gloves are a must, it’ll be cold out there.

Bring blankets, a lawn chair, or even a sleeping bag.

If you need a flashlight, use a dim red one instead of something bright.

The meteors themselves are usually bright, fast, and yellow in color. Against a dark, moonless sky, they really pop.

Even if you don’t hit that 120-per-hour mark, a clear night can still give you dozens of unforgettable streaks. It’s worth a shot, right?

Alternatives if Clouds Ruin the View

If the weather wins—and in December over Connecticut, it often does—you can still experience the Geminids virtually. NASA and several observatories often stream live views from clearer locations.

That might not match stepping outside in a quiet corner of West Hartford or Guilford under a crisp winter sky. Still, it’s a pretty good backup when the forecast turns stubborn.

Clouds, rain, and snow will probably limit viewing across much of Connecticut. If you’re willing to brave the cold and keep an eye on the radar, a quick break in the clouds might still reward you with one of the night sky’s finest shows.

Here is the source article for this story: Geminid meteor shower to peak Saturday night, but snow in CT forecast will hamper viewing

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