Weekend Meteor Shower To Peak Over Minnesota, Iowa, South Dakota

Geminids meteor shower should provide a peak active light show over Minnesota, Iowa, and South Dakota this weekend.

The annual Geminids meteor shower is set to illuminate the night skies over Minnesota, Iowa, and South Dakota this weekend.

Considered one of the most reliable and intense meteor showers of the year, the Geminids will reach their peak activity late Friday into Saturday offering a dazzling show for those willing to brave the winter chill.

Originating from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, these meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Gemini, creating a mesmerizing light show that can produce up to 120 meteors per hour at its peak.

The dark, clear winter skies of the Midwest provide an ideal viewing backdrop, with rural areas away from city lights offering the best observational conditions.

Astronomers recommend finding a dark location with an unobstructed view of the sky.

The key challenge is going to be the weather as cloudy conditions are forecast from large portions of Minnesota, Iowa, and South Dakota this weekend.

Viewers should allow their eyes to adjust to the darkness for about 30 minutes and dress warmly in layers.

No special equipment is needed, just patience and a clear view of the night sky.

The best viewing times are typically between midnight and early morning hours when the radiant point of the meteor shower is highest in the sky.