These meteors usually don’t have long trains, but the heads may appear as bright fireballs. (Photo: Getty)Haitong Yu

First meteor shower of 2025 is coming. How to catch the Quadrantids

The Quadrantids are unique among meteor showers as they originate from the asteroid 2003 EH1, rather than a comet.

by · India Today

In Short

  • Observers can expect to see between 60 to 120 meteors per hour
  • The source of the Quadrantids is debris from the asteroid 2003 EH1.
  • Sometimes the surrounding air glows briefly, leaving behind a fiery tail

As the new year unfolds, stargazers are in for a treat with the Quadrantid meteor shower, which peaks on January 3-4, 2025.

This celestial event marks the first significant meteor shower of the year, offering a dazzling display of fireballs streaking across the night sky. With a waning crescent moon providing optimal visibility, conditions are ideal for observing this spectacular phenomenon.

The Quadrantids are unique among meteor showers as they originate from the asteroid 2003 EH1, rather than a comet.

This asteroid is believed to be either a "dead comet" or a "rock comet," and it takes approximately 5.5 years to complete its orbit around the sun. The meteors appear when Earth passes through debris left by this asteroid, creating bright streaks of light as particles enter the atmosphere and burn up.

The Quadrantids will remain active until January 16. (Photo: Getty)

During its peak, observers can expect to see between 60 to 120 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. NASA's William Cooke notes that while Quadrantids typically do not leave long trails, their heads can appear as bright fireballs.

The best time to view these meteors is in the early predawn hours when the sky is darkest, particularly between 3:00 AM and 5:00 AM local time.

The Quadrantids are renowned for their brief but intense peak, lasting only a few hours compared to other meteor showers that can extend over several days. This year, viewers will benefit from minimal moonlight interference, as the crescent moon will set before the peak activity begins.

For those eager to catch a glimpse of this cosmic display, finding a dark location away from city lights is essential. No special equipment is needed—just a comfortable spot to lie back and watch the sky.

The Quadrantids will remain active until January 16, providing ample opportunities for celestial enthusiasts to enjoy this spectacular event.