Geminid meteor shower—December 13–14 Expect heaps of sky confetti during the Geminids’ peak from December 13–14. It’s historically one of the most prolific and reliable annual showers, producing anywhere from 60 to 120 meteors per hour during peak under pristine conditions. This year’s setup is exceptionally favorable.

The shower becomes visible around 10 p.m.; the peak night’s roughly 30-percent illuminated waning crescent moon won’t rise until around 2 a.m. That means, with clear, dark skies, astronomy enthusiasts can enjoy hours of uninterrupted meteor-scouting. Watch for the spectacle’s yellow-tinged streaks and especially bright flashes, known as fireballs, which can appear anywhere in the sky.

Orion rises above Haleakalā Crater in Hawai‘i, with the bright stars Betelgeuse and Rigel marking the constellation’s shoulders and foot. BABAK TAFRESHI, NAT GEO IMAGE COLLECTION