Curator of the Oscar E. Monnig Meteorite Collection and Gallery, Rhiannon Mayne, Ph.D., shares her expertise with ABC News about the highly anticipated Geminid meteor shower, which peaks this weekend and promises
to deliver a celestial display.
The Geminids, widely regarded as one of the most spectacular meteor showers of the year, are unique because they originate from an asteroid—3200 Phaethon—rather than a comet, making them an extraordinary astronomical phenomenon.
In her conversation with ABC News, Mayne highlighted what makes the Geminids so remarkable. “They’re incredibly bright and have a slower velocity compared to other meteor showers, which makes them easier to observe,” she said.
Mayne emphasized the importance of dark skies for optimal viewing, recommending observers find locations away from urban light pollution. She also noted the shower’s reliable activity, with up to 120 meteors per hour expected under ideal conditions.
With her passion for public engagement in science, Mayne has made a career of making geology and space science accessible and exciting for all. Her insights continue to inspire curiosity and encourage the public to look up and appreciate the wonders of our universe.
