Dubai’s night skies will light up on January 3 with the Quadrantids Meteor Shower, the first celestial event of 2025. According to a Gulf News report, the Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG) has organized a special viewing event at Al Qudra Desert to showcase the spectacle, offering stargazers a chance to witness up to 120 meteors per hour at its peak.
The Quadrantids, known for their vibrant blue-tinged meteors and occasional fireballs, originate from debris left behind by asteroid 2003 EH1. As these particles burn up upon entering Earth’s atmosphere, they create bright streaks of light across the sky. Unlike most meteor showers, the Quadrantids have a brief peak window, lasting only a few hours between midnight and 2:00 AM.
DAG explained that the meteor shower gets its name from the now-defunct constellation Quadrans Muralis, historically located near the modern constellations of Boötes, Draco, and Hercules. Although the constellation was officially removed in 1922, the meteor shower continues to bear its name, preserving a link to astronomical history.
No special equipment is needed to enjoy the meteor shower, but attendees are advised to allow their eyes 20–30 minutes to adjust to the dark for the best viewing experience. Telescopes will also be provided at the event for added exploration of the night sky.
