2026 Leonids Meteor Shower

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In 2026, the Leonids will be active from November 6 to November 30, 2026. This year, the peak is expected around November 17, 2026, with the best viewing after midnight through dawn.

Leonids

Active Period: November 6 – November 30, 2026
Peak: Around November 17, 2026
Best Viewing: After midnight through dawn

The Leonids, which peak during mid-November each year, are considered to be a major shower, though meteor rates are often around 15 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. The Leonids are bright meteors and can also be colorful. They are also fast: Leonids travel at speeds of about 43.5 miles (70 kilometers) per second, making them some of the fastest meteors out there.

Every 33 years or so, viewers on Earth may experience a Leonid storm that can peak with hundreds to thousands of meteors seen per hour, depending on the location of the observer. The Leonids are famous for spectacular meteor storms, including the legendary 1966 storm, when observers reported thousands of meteors per minute during a brief 15-minute period. Unfortunately, Earth isn’t expected to encounter another dense cloud of Leonid debris until 2099, so 2026 is not expected to produce a meteor storm.

Leonids are also known for their fireballs and earthgrazer meteors. Fireballs are larger explosions of light and color that can persist longer than an average meteor streak. Earthgrazers are meteors that streak close to the horizon and are known for their long and colorful tails.

Will the Moon Affect the 2026 Leonids?

Yes. A first-quarter Moon falls on November 17, 2026, so moonlight will interfere with the shower and wash out some of the fainter meteors. For the best viewing, find an area well away from city or street lights and look toward the darkest part of the sky.

Viewing Tips

The Leonids are best viewed starting at about midnight local time until dawn. Find an area well away from city or street lights. Come prepared for winter temperatures with a sleeping bag, blanket or lawn chair. Orient yourself with your feet towards east, lie flat on your back, and look up, taking in as much of the sky as possible. In less than 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adapt and you will begin to see meteors. Be patient — the show will last until dawn, so you have plenty of time to catch a glimpse.

Source: NASA

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