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rachel

Meteor showers usually get their names from the constellation where their radiant point lies, and for the Ursids Meteor Shower, its point can be seen at the Ursa Minor, also known as the Little Bear constellation. This meteor shower’s peak can be seen near the December Solstice and this year, it is scheduled from December 21- 22.

Because this year is the first time in 38 years that we will be experiencing a Full Moon on Christmas Day, the Ursid Meteor Shower may be a bit more challenging to watch. Dark skies are your best bet in spotting the shower–something that might not occur because of the Full Moon illuminating the sky.

But don’t lose hope in seeing the 5 to 10 meteors per hour shower before dawn tonight, as we can still possibly see its peak. Just camp somewhere far from city lights as this will increase the chances of viewing it clearly. And the good news, according to PAGASA, is that there is no weather disturbance expected in at least 3 days, which means the night skies will be clear, ready to stage the meteor show.