A dazzling celestial event is set to brighten the start of 2025. The Quadrantids meteor shower, known for its vibrant fireballs and short but spectacular peak, will light up the skies in early January. This annual phenomenon has been active since December 27 and will continue until January 16, with its peak expected on the night of January 3 and early hours of January 4 in India.

What makes the Quadrantids special? Unlike most meteor showers that originate from comets, the Quadrantids are unique as they stem from the asteroid 2003 EH1. NASA describes this celestial body as a "dead comet" or "rock comet." Adding to their uniqueness is the brief intensity of their peak activity. While many meteor showers stretch their peaks over days, the Quadrantids offer just a few hours of heightened visibility, during which up to 200 meteors per hour can streak across the sky under ideal conditions.