Quadrantids: The First Meteor Shower of the Year

The Quadrantids peak in early January, kicking off the new year’s skywatching.
They originate from the asteroid 2003 EH1, a possible extinct comet.
The shower is named after the defunct constellation Quadrans Muralis, no longer in use.
The meteors appear to radiate from the modern constellation Boötes.
At their best, the Quadrantids can produce over 100 meteors per hour.
The peak is brief—lasting only a few hours—making timing crucial.
Quadrantid meteors are known for being bright with occasional fireballs.
The shower was first observed in the early 19th century.
They are visible from the Northern Hemisphere, especially under dark winter skies.
Despite their short peak, the Quadrantids are one of the most spectacular annual meteor showers.