The Quadrantid meteor shower, a favorite among skywatchers for its exploding fireballs in light and color, peaks tonight.

The best viewing conditions will be in the central states, with mainly clear skies from North Dakota and Minnesota to Texas, according to weather.com meteorologist Chris Dolce.

Portions of the Gulf Coast states, Northwest and Southwest may also have decent viewing conditions, but cloud cover will obscure any view of the sky in the Northeast, Great Lakes and northern and central California, Dolce said.

Though the Quadrantids’ lights last longer than other meteor showers, the phenomenon itself is much shorter, lasting only a few hours compared to other showers which can last up to two days, according to NASA. 

(MORE: International Space Station Transits Sun in Striking NASA Photo)

The Quadrantids are believed to be associated with asteroid 2003 EH1, which astronomers believe is an extinct comet, meaning all of its ice and dust have evaporated, according to Space.com.

The shower’s peak is typically six hours long and it’s expected to hit maximum activity around 9 a.m. Eastern Time, Space.com also reports. This year average rates of 120 meteors per hour are expected.

Because there is no moonlight to obstruct the shower, this may be one of the best meteor displays of the year. 

MORE ON WEATHER.COM: Meteor Showers

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