MENAHGA, Minn. (trfnews.i234.me) – On December 13, 2024, during the peak of the Geminid meteor shower, the Menahga Police Department’s dash camera recorded a meteor. The Geminid meteor shower is active annually from December 4 to 20, with peak activity typically around December 13-14. Under optimal conditions, it can produce up to 150 meteors per hour.
The Geminids are notable for their brightness and frequency. Originating from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, they are among the few major meteor showers not originating from a comet. The meteors are visible in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, with the Northern Hemisphere offering better viewing opportunities due to the radiant’s position.
In 2024, the peak viewing period was on the night of December 13-14. However, a nearly full moon, reaching full phase on December 15, resulted in increased brightness, potentially reducing visibility of fainter meteors. Despite this, brighter meteors remained observable.
The Menahga Police Department’s dash cam footage provides a visual record of the event, contributing to public interest and awareness of astronomical phenomena. Such recordings can aid in the study of meteor showers by providing data on meteor frequency and brightness.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me