Unlike other meteor showers named after active constellations, the Quadrantids derive their name from Quadrans Muralis – which is now obsolete. “The Quadrantids take their name from a constellation ...

The Quadrantids shower gets its name from the former constellation Quadrans Muralis which is now part of Boötes. Observers in the Northern Hemisphere are the best suited to view the Quadrantids.

The constellation Quadrans Muralis, first observed and noted in 1795 between Boötes and Draco, is no longer included in the International Astronomical Union’s list of modern constellations ...

As the end of the year draws close, skywatchers in the Northern Hemisphere are being treated to one of the most active meteor showers in the celestial calendar: the Quadrantid meteor shower.