Viewing advice
Northern hemisphere favoured. Leo rises after midnight and is highest before dawn; from far southern latitudes the radiant stays low.
The best time to see Leonid Meteor Shower in 2026 is November 17-18, 2026. Timing status: Predicted dates.
Fast meteors with a history of once-in-a-generation storms.
The Leonids are usually modest, but every few decades they erupt into a true meteor storm. Even in a quiet year the meteors are among the fastest of all, best before dawn.
Moon at the peak: waxing gibbous, 61% lit (fair). A half-lit moon dims the fainter meteors while it is up. Best after it sets, or facing the darkest part of the sky.
Why it happens
Where to view it
Best seen far from city lights. Tap a spot to plan a trip around it.
In season during November 17-18, 2026
Natural events whose season is on while this peaks, so one trip could catch both the sky and the ground.
Next time: Leonid Meteor Shower, November 17-18, 2027
Related cosmic events
More sky events connected by phenomenon, region, or travel window.
Frequently asked questions
When is Leonid Meteor Shower 2026?
Leonid Meteor Shower 2026: November 17-18, 2026.
When is Leonid Meteor Shower 2027?
Leonid Meteor Shower 2027: November 17-18, 2027.