Leonids 2026: when to watch the meteor shower

The Leonids are active from November 6 to 30. In 2026, the predicted maximum is on November 17 at 23:45 UTC, which is about 01:45 on November 18 in Lithuania. The International Meteor Organization gives a typical rate of about 15 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. This is a calculated rate for a dark sky; the number you actually see will be lower and depends on clouds, light pollution and your location.

How to watch

Choose a spot away from streetlights and allow your eyes about 20–30 minutes to adapt to the dark. You do not need a telescope: meteors can appear across the sky, so a wide view is best. In Lithuania, start in the late evening and continue after midnight if skies are clear.

The Leonids are associated with comet 55P/Tempel–Tuttle. The Moon will be about 39% illuminated around the peak, and its light may hide the faintest meteors, especially while it is above the horizon. Check the cloud forecast and find a place with an open view.

Check clouds for your location on the NightSkyCast map