When we think of shooting stars, the first thing that comes to mind is making a wish. But what are these lights that cross the night sky and why can we see them?
Discover here the secrets behind this fascinating astronomical phenomenon.
What are shooting stars?
Despite their name, shooting stars are not stars.
In reality, they are small fragments of rock and dust, called meteoroids, which enter the Earth’s atmosphere at high speed.
When these fragments heat up due to friction with the air, they ignite and produce a bright light that we know as a meteor or “shooting star.”
Why can we see them?
Shooting stars are visible due to their interaction with the Earth’s atmosphere.
When a meteoroid enters the atmosphere, it travels at speeds of up to 72,000 km/h.
This friction generates extreme heat, vaporizing the fragment and creating a luminous trail that we can observe from Earth
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Star showers: A long awaited event
Throughout the year, we can enjoy meteor showers, which occur when the Earth passes through streams of debris left by comets.
Some of the most famous events include:
The Perseids: Visible in August, these shooting stars come from the Swift-Tuttle comet and are known for their spectacular nature.
The Geminids: Occur in December and are caused by an asteroid called 3200 Phaethon.
How and where to observe them?
Seeing a shooting star does not require specialized equipment. Follow these tips to enjoy the show:
Find a dark place: Move away from city lights to get a better view of the sky.
Look at the clear sky: cloudless nights are ideal for observation.
Be patient: It may take several minutes before you see a shooting star.
Curiosities about shooting stars
Buzzy
Meteoroids can be as small as a grain of sand.
If a fragment survives its entry and reaches Earth, it is called a meteorite.
Star showers can be accurately predicted, so mark your calendar so you don’t miss the next one.
In Hispanic culture, shooting stars are full of meaning.
From making wishes to symbolizing important changes, these celestial lights connect us to the universe and to our own spirituality.
Don’t forget to share this special moment with your loved ones!
For more Astros news, visit QuéOnnda.com.
