Two Meteor Showers Will Grace the Night Skies in December

The long nights of December offer plenty of opportunities for stargazers to check out the sparkling skies. This month's astronomical calendar features a brightly shining Jupiter and two separate meteor showers. As long as you bundle up and check the local forecast to find the clearest nights, you should be able to enjoy ideal viewing this month. Here is what you should be looking out for.

Jupiter Opposition - December 7

Jupiter is going to reach the stage of opposition on Saturday, December 7, distinguished as the point in its regular orbit when it appears in the opposite portion of the sky when compared to the sun. The point of opposition is also when the largest planet in the solar system is the closest to the Earth. The result is that Jupiter will shine brighter and bigger than it has at any other point this year.

You will need a telescope to view Jupiter as it shines all throughout the night. However, a special device such as a pair of binoculars or a telescope may help you to spot its four biggest moons.

While December 7 is the exact date of opposition, you will be able to find Jupiter all throughout the month. The goal is to pick a night as close to December 7 with clear skies. If you miss Jupiter in opposition this month, you will need to wait until January of 2026 to catch it again at this level of brightness.

Geminid Meteor Shower - December 12 and 13