Updated for 2026!
Meteor showers happen several times throughout the year, but their visibility depends on a few factors, some predictable, some not. The biggest predictable factor is the Moon phase, so here are the best chances we have to see meteors in the coming months with that in mind:
The Lyrids peak on April 22, with around 18 meteors/hour expected at the peak. The shower was first recorded in 687 BC, and its parent comet Thatcher was discovered in 1861.
The Perseids peak around August 13, with around 100 meteors per hour expected at the peak. This shower was first identified in AD 36, and its parent comet is 109P/Swift-Tuttle.
The Geminids peak on December 14, with up to 150 meteors/hour expected at the peak. This shower was first identified in 1862, and its parent body is the active asteroid 3200 Phaethon.
For all meteor showers, the best viewing is in the early morning, between midnight and sunrise. Find a nice dark area where you can get an open view of the whole sky. Then just lay back and look up! Binoculars or a telescope won't help you here, so just use your eyes.
Science Snacks – Space Bites – All About Meteor Showers
Discover how and why Meteor Showers occur!
Note: This video references the Lyrid meteor shower, which occurs in April.
Skywatcher's Guide – Extra – The Perseids
Additional info about one of the biggest meteor showers of the year!
Note: This video references the Perseid meteor shower, which occurs in August.