The Ursids is a minor meteor shower producing about 5-10 meteors per hour. It is produced by dust grains left behind by comet Tuttle, which was first discovered in 1790. The shower runs annually from December 17-25. It peaks this year on the night of the 21st and morning of the 22nd.
The second quarter moon will block many of the fainter meteors but if you are patient, you might still be able to catch a few of the brighter ones. Best viewing will be just after midnight from a dark location far away from city lights. The Meteors will appear to radiate from the constellation Ursa Minor, but can appear anywhere in the sky.
Why are they named the Ursids?
The shower is named the Ursids because the meteors seem to radiate from the direction of the constellation Ursa Minor in the sky.
There isn’t a lot of skill involved in watching a meteor shower. Here are some tips on how to maximize your time looking for the Ursids:
Get out of the city to a place where city and artificial lights do not impede your viewing
If you are out viewing the shower during its peak, you will not need any special equipment. You should be able to see the shower with your naked eyes.
Carry a blanket or a comfortable chair with you – viewing meteors, just like any other kind of star gazing is a waiting game, and you need to be comfortable. Plus, you may not want to leave until you can’t see the majestic celestial fireworks anymore.
Check the weather and moonrise and moonset timings for your location before you leave, and plan your viewing around it.