The Geminids, a yearly meteor shower known for producing bright and frequent streaks of light, will be the next major meteor event visible in Hong Kong, with activity running from 4 to 20 December. Under favourable conditions, 20 to 30 meteors may be seen per hour, the Hong Kong Space Museum mentioned.
When is Geminids Meteor Shower Happens?
According to the Hong Kong Space Museum, the peak will take place on 14 December around 16:00 HKT. Local observers will have the best chance of seeing the shower from the night of 14 to 15 December, between 19:30 and 05:45, when viewing conditions are rated excellent.
The Geminids have a theoretical Zenith Hourly Rate of 150 under ideal skies, making them one of the most active meteor showers of the year. Although Hong Kong’s light pollution reduces visibility, darker coastal locations and countryside viewing points can still provide meaningful conditions. The shower originates from debris linked to asteroid 3200 Phaethon, creating a consistent annual display.
Activity Period
The Geminid meteor shower is one of the most active and reliable sky events of the year:
- The Geminid meteor shower is active between 4 and 20 December 2025.
- It will peak on 14 December.
- The Zenith Hourly Rate (ZHR) can reach 150 during the peak.
- The ZHR refers to the number of meteors observable in an extremely dark and wide sky with the radiant at the zenith.
- ZHR is used for comparison between meteor showers, but not as an exact count of visible meteors.
When and Where to Watch
To catch the best views, it helps to know exactly when and where to look:
- On 14 December, the radiant will rise in the northeast at about 7:30 pm.
- It will be close to the zenith at 3:00 am on 15 December.
- Meteors can be seen when the radiant is above the horizon.
- Moonlight will be negligible, making observation conditions favourable.
- More than 15 meteors per hour may be visible in remote areas.
- Watching 1–2 days before or after the peak may still be rewarding.
According to the Hong Kong Space Museum, meteors may be visible from areas with a wide view and low light pollution, such as Sai Kung countryside and South Lantau.
Observation Tips
A few simple tips can make your experience even better:
- The closer the radiant is to the zenith, the more meteors will appear.
- Although the radiant is in Gemini, meteors can appear anywhere in the sky.
- Choose a site with an unobstructed view and low light pollution.
- The countryside is best for seeing dim meteors.
- An open area near home can also work.
- Stay away from light sources to keep your eyes sensitive to faint light.
Equipment and Preparation
You don’t need any special gear, but bringing a few basics will keep you comfortable:
- A telescope is not required; meteors are best seen with the naked eye.
- Suggested items: Star map, Red torch, Deck chair, Sleeping bag or blanket
- Avoid using excessive light, as it affects other stargazers.
Watch the Geminids Live from Hong Kong Space Museum
The Hong Kong Space Museum will live stream the Geminid meteor shower on 14 December between 9PM and 10PM, with real-time viewing and science commentary in Cantonese on Youtube.
Header Image Credit: Jeff Sullivan (Flickr)