Chicago, IL – Skywatchers across Illinois are in for a celestial show this weekend as the Ursid meteor shower reaches its annual peak overnight from December 21 to 22. The event, which coincides closely with the winter solstice, could bring as many as 10 shooting stars per hour under dark, clear skies.
According to NASA and the American Meteor Society, the best viewing time will be from late Sunday evening through dawn on Monday, with activity strongest after midnight. Observers should look north toward Ursa Minor, where the shower’s radiant lies near the bright star Kochab.
The Ursids are known for their subtle but steady display, often producing faint streaks of light against the crisp winter sky. Stargazers are advised to find a location away from city lights, bundle up against the cold, and allow their eyes at least 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness.
While the Ursids are not as intense as August’s Perseids or December’s Geminids, their timing near the solstice offers one of the longest nights of the year for viewing opportunities. With favorable weather, sky enthusiasts across northern Illinois and the greater Midwest should have a clear view of this seasonal spectacle.
