The only thing more magical than spotting a shooting star? Spotting hundreds of them.

Anyone who cares to look up tonight should be able to view what promises to be a pretty spectacular meteor shower over Irish skies – and indeed, in many places all over the world.

According to Astronomy Ireland, a Geminid shower – named for the constellation Gemini – will reach its peak tonight, meaning we can expect to see at least a couple of shooting stars every minute just by heading outside and looking up.

Those living in more rural areas will be able to fully appreciate the shower, and they'll be in for a treat as Geminid meteors can often be so bright they appear to look yellow, blue or even green.

Geminids are believed to be remnants of an extinct ancient comet called 3200 Phaethon, with tiny bits of debris still passing over Earth as shooting stars every year. The first evidence of a Geminid shower was spotted in the early 1800s – it's the comet that keeps on giving.

The current shower has actually been going on for a couple of weeks, but last night and tonight, Dec 13 and 14, are believed to be its peak.

Wondering what to expect? This time lapse from a Geminid shower in Big Sur, California should get you excited…