JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As the winter season takes hold, December’s clear, crisp nights offer stargazers a dazzling array of nighttime sights. From the Orion constellation to the bright planet Venus and the annual Geminids meteor shower.
Orion: A Winter Icon
The Orion constellation, one of the most recognizable star patterns, is at its brightest from December through March. While Orion is visible year-round, the winter months provide optimal viewing. Rising just after sunset and setting before sunrise. During winter, it also appears brighter due to the position of the earth in the night sky as well as clearer high-pressure evenings in the Northern Hemisphere. In short, you may notice Orion the hunter a bit more the next few months.
Geminid Meteor Shower Peaks Mid-Month
The Geminids meteor shower, one of the more active showers of the year, peaks on the night of Dec. 13-14. Under ideal conditions, skywatchers could see up to 100 meteors per hour. However, this year’s display may be dimmed by the Full Cold Moon, which peaks on Dec. 15. Despite the moonlight, brighter Geminids meteors can still be seen in darker areas away from artificial lights.
The Full Cold Moon
December’s Full Cold Moon, named such because December is one of the colder months, marks the last full moon of the year.
Venus: The Evening Star
Venus, which appears exceptionally bright in the western sky after sunset throughout December. Often called the "Evening Star," Venus is at its greatest elongation this month, reflecting sunlight due to its thick, reflective cloud cover. Its proximity to Earth during this time makes it a standout as well in the early evening sky.
If you see anything interesting in our night sky or anything of interest, please share your photos with us using the near me function on our App or by joining our Weather Watchers Facebook page.
