Geminid Meteor Shower 2012: When and Where to Watch

The Geminid meteor shower will peak the night of Dec. 13/14, but will be active from now through the 17th.

This could be the best meteor show of the year, according to Astronomy magazine.

Geminid meteors are relatively slow moving, and the shower has a broad peak, offering an excellent show all night, the magazine states.

The Geminids are so named because if you trace all the meteor trails backward, they would converge within the boundaries of the constellation Gemini the Twins. This point, called the radiant, lies approximately 3° northwest of the 1st-magnitude star Castor.

James Keating tells us the best place to watch for meteors is anywhere the sky is dark.

Gazers should be prepared to sit for a while so a comfortable chair and warm clothing are a must in winter.

By the way, if you are wondering what a meteor is: It's the streak of light that we see when a meteoroid enters Earth's atmosphere. 

To make sure you get the best view possible, remember to check the weather forecast and conditions before you head outside to watch.