Filipinos Anticipate Stunning γ-Normid Meteor Shower Peak March 14

MANILA, Philippines – Stargazers across the Philippines are gearing up for the peak of the γ-Normid meteor shower, set to delight viewers on March 14, 2025. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasts that the phenomenon, which can be visible from February 25 through March 28, may produce up to six meteors per hour.

The celestial display will be most visible after the radiant point, located in the constellation Norma, rises above the eastern horizon at approximately 11:33 PM on March 13. According to PAGASA, the best viewing happens around 4 AM on March 14 when Norma will be at its zenith.

Meteor showers occur when meteoroids, or space rocks, enter Earth’s atmosphere, becoming intensely heated as they descend. This creates the brilliant streaks known as meteors, or shooting stars, composed of “glowing hot air as the hot rock zips through the atmosphere,” as described by astronomers.

A waning gibbous moon, situated in the constellation Virgo, will accompany the event, potentially impacting visibility. To enhance the experience, PAGASA recommends finding a dark location away from urban light pollution and ensuring clear sky conditions for optimal viewing. Importantly, telescopes or binoculars are unnecessary as the meteors can be seen with the naked eye.

This isn’t the first time Filipinos have enjoyed impressive meteor showers. Notably, the meteor shower in August 2016 captivated observers, with reports of 200 to 300 shooting stars per hour. As excitement builds for the γ-Normids, many are eagerly preparing to witness this remarkable astronomical event.