✦ Meteor Shower
Quadrantids Meteor Shower 2026
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The Quadrantids are one of the strongest meteor showers of the year, with a sharp peak that only lasts a few hours. They radiate from the defunct constellation Quadrans Muralis, near the handle of the Big Dipper, and are thought to be debris from the asteroid 2003 EH1, possibly an extinct comet. Active from late December through mid-January, they produce up to 110 meteors per hour at peak. Best viewed after midnight from Northern Hemisphere latitudes — cold, dark winter nights actually favour them, since the radiant climbs high in the sky before dawn.
2026 Conditions
Peak Night
Jan 3-4
Max Meteors/Hour
110
Moon Conditions
🌓 Fair
Speed
Medium (41 km/s)
About the Quadrantids
A strong shower with a very narrow peak. Best viewed after midnight from the Northern Hemisphere.
Active period: Dec 28 – Jan 12
Parent body: Asteroid 2003 EH1
Radiant: Boötes
How to Watch
- Find a location away from city lights with a clear view of the sky
- Lie on your back and look straight up — no telescope or binoculars needed
- Give your eyes 20 minutes to adapt to the darkness
- Best viewing is usually after midnight when the radiant is highest
- Dress warm and bring a blanket — you'll be lying still for a while
Don't Miss the Quadrantids
Get a reminder the day before the peak so you can plan your viewing.