Friday evening marks the return of one of the biggest and brightest meteoric events of the year, the Geminids meteor shower.
According to NASA, the Geminids phenomenon peaks each year during mid-December. The meteor shower is considered to be one of the most reliable of its kind.
The Geminids stand out from other meteor showers for their unique yellow hue and rapid pace. During the event, meteors will fall at a rate of 120 per hour.
As for whether the meteor shower will be visible in Chicago tonight—maybe. Overcast skies and a nearly full moon could obscure the celestial event.
According to NBC, the best time to catch a glimpse of the meteors will occur between 6 and 9pm, when skies will be clearest.
Viewers will have the best chance of seeing the meteors in a dark atmosphere free of light pollution. For those looking to brave the cold, we recommend bundling up and heading to the lakefront for the prime stargazing experience.