Top Meteor Showers in 2027 and When to Watch

Meteor showers happen when Earth passes through debris left by a comet or asteroid. Rates are highest after midnight, from a dark site, once your eyes have adjusted for about 20 minutes.

The big three

The Quadrantids peak around 3 January, the Perseids around 12 August, and the Geminids around 14 December. The Geminids are usually the strongest shower of the year.

Moonlight matters

A bright Moon near the peak washes out fainter meteors. Use the Moon Phase tab on the Astronomy page to check illumination on peak night.

No equipment needed

Binoculars and telescopes narrow your view too much. Lie back, look about halfway up the sky, and be patient.