As 2025 gets underway, the first major meteor shower of the year — the Quadrantids — will light up the night sky. Unlike most meteor showers, which last for several days, the Quadrantids have a much shorter window of peak activity, but they’re definitely worth the watch.
Expect a stunning display of meteors, especially fireballs, lighting up the sky, visible from right here in Connecticut.
Keep reading to learn how you can view the Quadrantids meteor shower in Connecticut.
What is the Quadrantid Meteor Shower?
The Quadrantids are unique, not only for their short peak but also because their name is tied to a constellation that no longer exists.
The meteor shower was named after the Quadrans Muralis constellation, which was first observed in 1795 but was later discarded by the International Astronomical Union due to its obscurity. These meteors, however, continue to grace our skies, originating from the asteroid 2003 EH1, a rocky body rather than an icy comet, which is atypical for most meteor showers.
The Quadrantids are known for their bright, colorful fireballs, which are larger, brighter meteors that last longer than regular streaks.
While the meteors tend to have short trains, they are a dramatic sight in the sky, making this event a stargazer’s delight.
When to View the Quadrantids Meteor Shower in Connecticut
The Quadrantids will peak around the early hours of January 3, 2025, making the pre-dawn morning hours your best chance to catch the show.
The peak of the shower is brief, lasting just about six hours, so it’s crucial to catch it during the right time window.
The waning crescent moon (only 11% full) will set well before midnight, providing optimal dark skies for viewing, with minimal light interference.
Expect to see up to 25 meteors per hour on the East Coast of the U.S., with a potential for even more in darker regions like western Alaska.
Best Locations for Viewing the Quadrantids in Connecticut
To get the best view of the Quadrantids, you’ll want to escape from the bright lights of the city.
Head to areas in Connecticut that are free from light pollution and offer a wide view of the night sky. The darker the environment, the better the chance to see the meteors clearly.
Popular stargazing spots in Connecticut include:
- Sleeping Giant State Park – A great vantage point for seeing meteor showers.
- West Rock Ridge State Park – A large, open space away from city lights.
- Hammonasset Beach State Park – A serene spot right by the water for clear skies.
If you live in a more urban area, consider driving to one of Connecticut’s state parks or rural locations to make the most of the night sky.
Viewing Tips for the Quadrantids
- Prepare Your Eyes: To see the meteors clearly, it’s important to let your eyes adjust to the darkness for 20 to 30 minutes. This helps you spot the faint meteors more easily, so resist the urge to look at your phone during that time.
- Best Time to Look: Meteors will appear all over the sky, so there’s no need to focus in one direction. However, they’ll radiate from near the now-obsolete Quadrans Muralis constellation, which lies between the Big Dipper and Arcturus.
- Bring Comfortable Gear: You’ll likely be outside for a while and it’s sure to be pretty chilly, so bring blankets, chairs, and some warm clothing to enjoy the show comfortably.
Other Meteor Showers to Look Forward to in 2025
If you miss the Quadrantids or simply want to keep watching the skies, there will be a number of other meteor showers visible throughout the year:
Lyrids: April 21-22
Eta Aquariids: May 3-4
Southern Delta Aquariids: July 29-30
Alpha Capricornids: July 29-30
Perseids: August 12-13
Draconids: October 8-9
Orionids: October 22-23
Southern Taurids: November 3-4
Northern Taurids: November 8-9
Leonids: November 16-17
Geminids: December 12-13
Ursids: December 21-22
Final Thoughts
The Quadrantid Meteor Shower offers a perfect way to start the New Year with a beautiful celestial display.
Whether you’re a seasoned skywatcher or a first-timer, this brief but exciting meteor shower is sure to leave you in awe.
So, bundle up, find a dark spot, and enjoy the brilliant fireworks of nature as we ring in 2025 under Connecticut’s night sky.
