Ursids meaning

Ursids are a meteor shower phenomenon occurring annually in December.


Ursids definitions

Word backwards sdisrU
Part of speech The word "Ursids" is a noun.
Syllabic division Ur-sids
Plural The plural of the word Ursids is still Ursids.
Total letters 6
Vogais (2) u,i
Consonants (4) u,r,s,d

Ursids are a well-known meteor shower associated with the comet 8P/Tuttle. This annual event occurs in the month of December and peaks around the 21st or 22nd of the month. The Ursids get their name from their radiant point, which is located near the constellation Ursa Minor.

Origin and Characteristics

The Ursids are considered a minor meteor shower, producing only about 5-10 meteors per hour at its peak. These meteors are relatively slow-moving, with a velocity of 33 km/s. The Ursids are known for producing bright fireballs that can be visible even in light-polluted areas.

Observing the Ursids

To observe the Ursids, find a dark location away from city lights during the peak nights in December. Look towards the constellation Ursa Minor in the northern sky, and allow time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Patience is key when observing meteor showers, as they can be sporadic in nature.

Fun Facts

The Ursids have been observed for centuries, with records dating back to the 8th century. They are one of the oldest known meteor showers. Despite being a minor shower, the Ursids are still popular among amateur astronomers and skywatchers.

Comet 8P/Tuttle is the parent body of the Ursids, as it sheds debris that causes the meteor shower. The word radiant refers to the point in the sky from which the meteors appear to originate during a shower. The Ursids are a fascinating celestial event that highlights the beauty and wonder of the night sky.


Ursids Examples

  1. The Ursids meteor shower can be seen in December.
  2. Astronomers study the Ursids to learn more about meteor showers.
  3. The Ursids are named after Ursa Minor, the constellation where they appear to radiate from.
  4. During the Ursids peak, skywatchers may see up to 10 meteors per hour.
  5. Many people enjoy camping out to watch the Ursids meteor shower.
  6. Scientists use special equipment to track and study the Ursids meteor shower.
  7. The Ursids can be observed with the naked eye, no telescope needed.
  8. Some cultures have myths and legends associated with the Ursids meteor shower.
  9. Each Ursids meteor is actually a piece of comet debris entering Earth's atmosphere.
  10. Once you see your first Ursids meteor, you'll want to see more!


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  • Updated 11/04/2024 - 09:31:44