What characteristic of the Geminid debris stream contributes to its long activity window compared to cometary showers?
Answer
The rocky debris from Phaethon persists longer than vaporizing ice.
Because the material comes from a rocky asteroid rather than icy comets that sublimate quickly, the debris trail is more stable and lasts longer in orbit.
#Videos
Everything to know about the Geminid Meteor Shower | In the News
Related Questions
What celestial body is the unique source of the Geminid meteor stream?In which constellation is the radiant point for the Geminid shower located?What are the generally accepted annual dates for the peak of the Geminid shower?How is the parent body, 3200 Phaethon, fundamentally classified, separating it from most other shower sources?Approximately how fast do Geminid meteoroids enter Earth's atmosphere?What is cited as the single biggest obstacle when trying to view fainter meteors during a shower?Approximately how long does it take for a stargazer's eyes to fully adapt to darkness for optimal viewing?Why often do the highest rates of visible Geminids occur after midnight, especially before dawn?What type of equipment is explicitly discouraged for observing the Geminids?What characteristic of the Geminid debris stream contributes to its long activity window compared to cometary showers?