The Geminids meteor shower has returned to the December sky this week. Known for its steady activity rather than brief bursts, the shower is expected to peak overnight between December 13 and December 14. Under ideal conditions, observers could see rates exceeding 120 meteors per hour. However, real-time viewing will not be possible for everyone, particularly those in urban areas, making online livestreams an important alternative this year.
Geminids Meteor Shower 2025: Peak Time in India
While Geminid activity begins as early as late evening, the most favourable viewing window in India falls between 2 am and 4 am IST on December 14, according to reports. This is the period when Earth moves directly through the densest part of the debris stream and the shower’s radiant point in the Gemini constellation rises high in the sky.
Even observers dealing with city lights can still spot brighter meteors, though darker skies offer a more consistent and dramatic display.
How to Watch the Geminids Online from India
For viewers unable to step outdoors or escape urban light pollution, livestreams offer a practical alternative. The Virtual Telescope Project will host a real-time broadcast from its observatory in Italy, using wide-field instruments designed to detect faint meteor activity.
In addition, NASA and the International Meteor Organization are known to run parallel livestreams on YouTube, though these typically go live closer to the peak of the event.
Tips for Viewing the Geminids from Home
Viewers are advised to switch off room lights and slightly increase screen brightness to reduce glare. The livestream cameras handle tracking the meteor activity, allowing viewers to follow the event comfortably from indoors.
This setup is particularly suited for audiences in high-pollution zones, offering a quieter and uninterrupted way to experience the shower.
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Zubair Amin is a Senior Journalist at NewsX with over seven years of experience in reporting and editorial work. He has written for leading national and international publications, including Foreign Policy Magazine, Al Jazeera, The Economic Times, The Indian Express, The Wire, Article 14, Mongabay, News9, among others. His primary focus is on international affairs, with a strong interest in US politics and policy. He also writes on West Asia, Indian polity, and constitutional issues. Zubair tweets at zubaiyr.amin
