Quadrantids 2026
The Quadrantids can match the Geminids at peak, but the peak is razor-thin (about six hours), so catching it depends on timing and longitude. Named for the defunct constellation Quadrans Muralis.
Moon conditions for the 2026 peak
A bright waning gibbous moon interfered with the 2026 peak; 2027 conditions are better.
How to watch the Quadrantids
- The peak lasts only ~6 hours; check the peak time for your timezone before committing to a cold January night.
- Northern-hemisphere-only: the radiant barely rises south of the equator.
Check your sky first:meteors don't care about clouds, but you will. Open your city's page on our live conditions indexfor tonight's hour-by-hour cloud forecast, or find a certified dark-sky site within driving distance: the single biggest upgrade to your meteor count.
Free Quadrantids peak sky alerts, no app required
One email when aurora conditions align at your location, plus meteor reminder and go-time emails for peaks worth watching. Web alerts cover one US location per email.
Quadrantids 2026: FAQ
›When do the Quadrantids peak in 2026?
Night of January 3–4, 2026. The shower is active December 28 – January 12, so nights within a few days of the peak still produce elevated rates, useful insurance if peak night is cloudy where you are.
›What time should I watch the Quadrantids?
After midnight until dawn. The radiant (Northern tip of Boötes (northeast)) needs to be above the horizon for you to see meteors, and rates climb as it rises higher.
›How many meteors will I see during the Quadrantids?
The ideal-condition rate is up to 110/hour. Realistically: from a dark rural site expect a third to a half of that; from the suburbs, far fewer. A bright waning gibbous moon interfered with the 2026 peak; 2027 conditions are better.
›Where do the Quadrantids come from?
Asteroid 2003 EH1. Each year Earth crosses the debris left along its orbit, and those particles hit our atmosphere at 41 km/s, vaporizing as the streaks we call meteors.
›Do I need a telescope for the Quadrantids?
No. Meteors cross large areas of sky, so unaided eyes with the widest possible view win. Bring a reclining chair, dress warmer than you think you need, and give your eyes 20 minutes to dark-adapt.