Meteor Shower Calendar

Peak dates of major meteor showers across the year.

What are Meteor Showers?

Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through trails of debris left by comets (or occasionally asteroids) as they orbit the Sun. These particles, mostly no larger than a grain of sand, enter the atmosphere at high speed and burn up, producing streaks of light called meteors.

Zenithal Hourly Rate (ZHR)

ZHR is the theoretical maximum number of meteors an observer could see per hour under ideal conditions: a clear, dark sky with the radiant directly overhead. Actual observed rates are typically lower due to light pollution, radiant altitude, and sky conditions.

The Radiant

Meteors in a shower appear to originate from a single point in the sky called the radiant. Showers are named after the constellation containing their radiant (e.g., Perseids from Perseus). The radiant must be above the horizon for meteors to be visible, and rates increase as it climbs higher.

Moon Interference

Moonlight is the biggest factor affecting meteor visibility. A bright Moon washes out fainter meteors, significantly reducing observed rates. The interference level depends on the Moon's phase (illumination percentage) near the shower's peak:

• Low (0-25% illumination) — Minimal impact; excellent viewing conditions.
• Moderate (25-50%) — Some faint meteors will be lost, but brighter ones remain visible.
• High (50-75%) — Significant impact; only brighter meteors will be seen.
• Severe (75-100%) — Major washout; only the brightest fireballs will be visible.

Viewing Tips

• Find a dark location away from city lights.
• Allow 20-30 minutes for your eyes to adapt to the dark.
• Look slightly away from the radiant for longer meteor trails.
• Best viewing is typically after midnight when your location faces into Earth's orbital path.
• Check moon phase — new Moon periods offer the darkest skies.