With a brief, sharp maximum that lasts only a few hours, the Quadrantid meteor stream offers one of the most powerful yearly meteor displays early in January.
For this reason, this display is described as being especially elusive in several stargazing guides. It is happening again in 2025.
This year, viewing conditions favor North Americans, especially those who reside west of the Mississippi.
According to Space.com, people may expect the meteors to be referred to as the “Boötids” because they originate from the northeastern corner of the constellation of Boötes, the Herdsman.
However, an astronomical device known as Quadrans Muralis, or the “Mural or Wall Quadrant,” existed there earlier in the late 18th century.
