As 2026 kicks off, meteor lovers are already thinking ahead. The recent Quadrantids meteor shower didn’t shine as brightly due to a full moon, but the months coming up look promising. Several major meteor showers will take place when the skies are darker, making this year a great one for stargazers.
The Perseid meteor shower, running from mid-July to late August, will peak overnight on August 12–13. This year, it coincides with a new moon, setting the stage for stunningly dark skies.
According to Royal Museums Greenwich, the Perseids are a favorite among meteor watchers. They often produce dozens of bright meteors each hour. With no moonlight, you can expect a spectacular show.
The best time to watch is after midnight. From rural areas away from city lights, you’ll have the best chance to see many shooting stars.
On social media, excitement is already building. One tweet reads: “FIREBALLS ARE COMING! January 3 is going to be amazing with the Quadrantid meteor shower peaking!” It’s clear that many are looking forward to this cosmic event.
The Geminids are another must-see shower, peaking on December 13–14. Known for their reliability, the Geminids can produce up to 120 meteors per hour under the right conditions, and this year’s waning crescent moon will help create excellent viewing conditions. These meteors are often colorful and take more time to cross the sky, making them great for long-exposure photography.
Another noteworthy event is the upcoming Lyrids, peaking on April 22. They can be seen under a waxing crescent moon, leading to decent views at around 18 meteors per hour. However, the Eta Aquariids shower, peaking around May 5–6, might be hard to catch due to a bright moon.
Lastly, don’t miss the Orionids on October 21–22. They are also tied to Halley’s Comet. While a waxing gibbous moon may wash out many faint meteors, some brighter ones might still be visible after midnight.
In short, 2026 offers an array of spectacular nights for skywatchers. Make sure to mark your calendars and enjoy the beauty above!
