Tucson, AZ

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Every December, the Geminids Meteor Shower transforms the Sonoran Desert into a natural planetarium, streaking the sky with up to 120 meteors per hour at it's peak. Unlike many meteor showers born from comets, the Geminids come from an ancient, rocky object called 3200 Phaethon, making their bright, colorful fireballs especially dazzling!

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The Sonoran's vast, open landscapes and low humidity create exceptionally clear skies, while it's protected dark sky regions- like those around Tucson, preserve the night from light pollution. These dark skies aren't just beautiful, they're vital for wildlife, plant cycles, cultural heritage and scientific observation. Under a truly dark desert sky, the Milk Way radiates, meteors leave glowing trails, animals search the night for food, vital pollinators populate the skies and the desert reminds us that protecting darkness is just as important as protecting land.  Some of the most powerful natural experiences happens after the sun goes down.

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For December 2025, you can enjoy the Geminids on December 4- December 20, with a peak on 12/13 & 12/14. This year the moon is waning crescent which provides excellent dark-sky conditions!

 

 

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