✦ Meteor Shower
Ursids Meteor Shower 2026
209
days
:
22
hrs
:
48
min
:
37
sec
The Ursids are a minor northern shower that closes out the meteor year, peaking around the winter solstice. They are debris from Comet 8P/Tuttle, and radiate from Ursa Minor — the Little Dipper — which means the radiant never sets for most Northern Hemisphere observers. Typical rates are modest at 10 meteors per hour, but the Ursids have a history of surprise outbursts tied to the comet's 13.6-year orbit. Active from December 17 to December 26, the 2026 peak falls on December 22 with fair moon conditions.
2026 Conditions
Peak Night
Dec 22
Max Meteors/Hour
10
Moon Conditions
🌓 Fair
Speed
Slow (33 km/s)
About the Ursids
A minor shower that occasionally surprises with outbursts. Best for Northern Hemisphere observers.
Active period: Dec 17 – Dec 26
Parent body: Comet 8P/Tuttle
Radiant: Ursa Minor
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 Ursids
Get a reminder the day before the peak so you can plan your viewing.