Skywatchers in 2026 can look forward to several spectacular meteor showers, including crowd pleasers like the Perseids and Geminids that offer up to 100 “shooting stars” per hour at their peak.
Although meteor showers are annual occurrences, what matters is the moon — bright moonlight hampers observing. Each meteor shower featured here has been meticulously studied to account for the moon phase. In doing so, something incredible is revealed — the peak of the annual Perseid meteor shower will coincide with a total solar eclipse. Will eclipse chasers see a “shooting star” during the twilight-like totality?
Here’s a look at the standout meteor showers of the year, with details on when to look up and what to expect.
Lyrids Meteor Shower 2026
Peak night: April 21-22, 2026
Moon phase: 27%-lit waxing crescent moon sets just after midnight on Apr. 22.
January through April is a period oddly devoid of major meteor showers, but that comes to an end with the Lyrids, a moderate shower with typical rates of 10-20 meteors per hour on the peak night. However, they have surprised observers with past outbursts, including one in 1982. This year, the moon will rise around 3 a.m., which may cause some interference. Best viewing will be before moonrise, especially in darker skies away from city lights.
Perseid Meteor Shower 2026
Peak night: Aug. 12-13, 2026
Moon phase: new moon (not in the night sky)
2026 is an excellent year for the Perseids, with no moonlight to spoil the view. This beloved summer shower, known for its high meteor counts and bright fireballs, can produce up to 100 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. The radiant rises in the northeast by late evening and climbs higher through the night, making the hours before dawn the most productive. With warm weather and clear skies, it’s a prime event for casual and seasoned observers alike.
Orionid Meteor Shower 2026
Peak night: Oct. 21-22, 2026
Moon phase: 80%-lit waxing gibbous moon sets a few hours before dawn on Oct. 22
The Orionids, another product of Halley’s Comet, peak in late October and benefit from a mostly Moon-free sky this year. While the shower’s peak rate is a modest 20 meteors per hour, its swift, bright meteors often leave glowing trails. The radiant is near Orion’s club and rises late, making the early morning hours the best time to watch.
Leonid Meteor Shower 2026
When: Nov. 16-17, 2026
Moon phase: first quarter moon sets around midnight
Although once known for storm-level activity, the Leonids now produce around 15 meteors per hour. This year offers favorable viewing with minimal moonlight. The meteors are fast and sometimes leave persistent trails, but major outbursts aren’t expected until the 2030s when parent comet Tempel-Tuttle returns.
Geminid Meteor Shower 2026
When: Dec. 13-14, 2026
Moon phase: 25%-lit waxing crescent moon sets a few hours after sunset on Dec. 13
The Geminids are widely considered the strongest and most reliable meteor shower of the year, and 2026 is an ideal year to view them. With the moon out of the way and the radiant high in the sky by mid-evening, observers could see more than 100 meteors per hour. Unlike many showers, the Geminids offer excellent activity before midnight. Their bright, colorful meteors come from asteroid 3200 Phaethon, making them unique among major showers.
What Are Meteor Showers?
Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through streams of dust and debris left behind by comets or asteroids. These particles, often no larger than grains of sand, enter Earth’s atmosphere at high speed, producing streaks of light as they burn up.
To get the best views, find a dark site as far from city light pollution as possible and give your eyes 30 minutes to adjust. Use a reclining chair, bring warm clothing or blankets, and avoid using your phone to preserve night vision. Meteors can appear anywhere in the sky, but they’re sporadic — patience is everything.
Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.
