This December, the night sky over New Jersey will put on one of its most dazzling natural displays — and the New Jersey State Museum Planetarium in Trenton is inviting visitors to learn all about it. On Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 4:15 to 5:00 p.m., astronomy enthusiasts, families, and curious minds alike can attend a special Winter Meteor Shower planetarium presentation exploring two of the season’s most spectacular celestial events: the Geminid and Quadrantid meteor showers. Admission is free, and seats can be reserved in advance for what promises to be an illuminating journey through the stars.
The program offers a fascinating look into when, where, and how to view these meteor showers, which are among the brightest and most reliable of the year. The Geminids, known for their vibrant streaks of light that appear to radiate from the constellation Gemini, peak in mid-December and often deliver more than 100 meteors per hour under dark skies. The Quadrantids, which light up the early days of January, are famed for their brief but intense bursts of shooting stars. Attendees will gain valuable insight into the science behind these annual spectacles — including how fragments of comets and asteroids enter Earth’s atmosphere and burn up, creating the glowing trails we know as meteors.
The presentation also dives deeper into the world of small celestial bodies — comets, asteroids, and other remnants of the early solar system — offering an engaging look at how these ancient objects have influenced not just the night sky, but also the evolution of our own planet. Through vivid imagery and expert narration, visitors will explore how scientists trace meteor origins, study cosmic debris, and uncover clues about the history of our solar neighborhood.
Located at 205 West State Street in Trenton, the New Jersey State Museum Planetarium has long been one of the state’s premier destinations for science education and cosmic discovery. Its immersive programs bring the universe to life for guests of all ages, and this winter’s meteor shower event is no exception. The presentation is recommended for ages 8 and up, making it a perfect family-friendly outing that blends education with wonder.
For those eager to see a shooting star or simply deepen their understanding of the universe, this event offers a perfect introduction to the magic of astronomy. The timing couldn’t be better — with clear winter nights providing ideal viewing conditions for both major meteor showers, attendees can leave the planetarium prepared to witness these celestial events firsthand.
To explore more of New Jersey’s upcoming arts, science, and cultural happenings — from stargazing events and live performances to film screenings and seasonal attractions — visit Explore New Jersey Entertainment, your guide to the best experiences across the Garden State.
As the Geminids and Quadrantids light up the December and January skies, the New Jersey State Museum Planetarium offers a front-row seat to the cosmos — where science, beauty, and imagination all collide under the same canopy of stars.
