Ursid Meteor Shower 2025: Date, Peak Time in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata; When, Where and How To Watch Final Shooting Stars in India

Mumbai, December 22: India is poised for the annual Ursid meteor shower, expected to reach its peak visibility tonight, December 22, 2025. Stargazers across the country will have an opportunity to witness meteors originating from the constellation Ursa Minor, with optimal viewing conditions anticipated due to a favorable moon phase. While known for its modest intensity compared to other major showers, the Ursids offer a consistent celestial event for enthusiasts willing to brave the winter chill.

What Is Ursid Meteor Shower?

The Ursid meteor shower is an annual astronomical event occurring in late December. It is associated with Comet 8P/Tuttle, a periodic comet that orbits the Sun every 13.6 years. As Earth passes through the debris trail left by this comet, dust and ice particles enter our atmosphere, burning up and creating streaks of light known as meteors. The shower's radiant point, from which the meteors appear to originate, is located near the star Kochab in the constellation Ursa Minor, also known as the Little Dipper. Winter Solstice 2025 on December 21: Thousands Gather at Stonehenge to See Sunrise on Shortest Day of The Year (Watch Video).

Ursid Meteor Shower 2025 Date, Peak Viewing Times and Conditions

For 2025, the Ursid meteor shower is predicted to peak on the night of December 22nd, extending into the pre-dawn hours of December 23rd. The peak activity is predicted around 11:00 UTC on December 22 (4:30 PM IST). Observers can expect to see an average of 5-10 meteors per hour under ideal dark sky conditions. A significant advantage for 2025 viewing is the New Moon occurring on December 19th, ensuring minimal moonlight interference during the peak period. This dark sky will enhance the visibility of fainter meteors, making it an excellent year for observation. The best time to watch will typically be after midnight, once the radiant point is higher in the sky, until just before dawn.

Optimal Viewing Locations in India

To maximize the chances of spotting Ursid meteors, individuals in India should seek locations away from city lights. Light pollution significantly diminishes the visibility of celestial events. Rural areas, national parks, and designated dark sky sites offer the best conditions. While a specific list of cities for viewing is not exhaustive, observers across India, from the northern plains to the southern coasts, can witness the shower provided they prioritize dark, open skies. Northeastern states and mountainous regions, with their often clearer atmospheres, may offer slightly enhanced viewing opportunities.

While residents in Delhi and Hyderabad can expect optimal viewing conditions from early evening through late night, those in Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata are advised to begin their observations earlier in the evening. Because the peak duration is brief, timing is critical; success depends more on hitting the specific peak window than on a prolonged overnight vigil. Did Paris Scrap Live New Year's Eve Concert on Champs-Élysées and Decide To Replace It With a Pre-Recorded New Year 2026 Celebration Video? Here's the Truth.

Tips for Stargazers

Observing a meteor shower requires patience and preparation. Here are some recommendations for a rewarding experience:

• Find a Dark Spot: Travel away from urban centers to minimize light pollution.
• Allow Eyes to Adjust: Give your eyes at least 20-30 minutes to adapt to the darkness for optimal night vision.
• Dress Warmly: December nights in India can be cold, especially in open areas. Layer clothing, bring blankets, and consider hot beverages.
• Comfortable Setup: Bring a reclining chair or a blanket to lie on the ground. Staring upwards for extended periods can be tiring.
• Look Up: No special equipment like telescopes or binoculars is needed, as meteors are best viewed with the naked eye to capture the widest possible field of view. Scan the entire sky, focusing generally towards the north where Ursa Minor is located.
• Check Weather Forecasts: Clear skies are essential for meteor shower viewing.

Ursid Meteor Shower: Historical Context and Origin

The Ursid meteor shower was first officially recognized in the early 20th century. Its parent body, Comet 8P/Tuttle, was discovered by Horace Parnell Tuttle in 1858. The shower's consistent appearance around the winter solstice has made it a reliable, albeit usually modest, fixture in the annual astronomical calendar. Its relatively low Zenithal Hourly Rate (ZHR) means it requires more dedication from observers compared to more prolific showers like the Perseids or Geminids, but the quiet solitude of a winter night under a meteor-streaked sky remains a unique experience.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 22, 2025 04:49 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).