This table lists some of the best-known meteor showers. If your location observes Daylight Saving Time, please add one hour to the time shown. All times given are listed in Eastern Time.
The best way to watch for meteors is to find a place with a clear view of the sky and arrange for deck chairs or some other comfortable rest. Warm clothing and a blanket—even in summer—are advisable. Another factor to consider is bright moonlight, which can considerably cut into the potential number of meteors that might be seen. If a gibbous or full Moon is present during your meteor watch, it will generally obliterate all but the very brightest of meteors.
| Name | Maximum Activity | Hourly Rate | Direction and Time | Speed |
| Quadrantids | Jan 3-4 | 60-120 | Northeast 4 to 6 am | Medium |
| Lyrids | Apr 21-22 | 10-20 | Overhead 2 to 4 am | Swift streaks |
| Eta Aquarids | May 4-5 | 20-40 | Southeast 2 to 4 am | Very swift, long paths |
| Delta Aquarids | Jul 28-29 | 15-25 | South 1 to 3 am | Slow, long paths |
| Perseids | Aug 11-13 | 50-100 | Northeast 2 to 4 am | Very swift, rich display |
| Orionids | Oct 21-22 | 15-25 | South 2 to 4 am | Swift streaks |
| South Taurids | Nov 2-4 | 10-20 | South 1 to 3 am | Very slow, bright |
| North Taurids | Nov 12-14 | 10-20 | South 12 to 2 am | Slow fireballs |
| Leonids | Nov 17-18 | 10-15 | S/Southeast 4 to 6 am | Very swift |
| Geminids | Dec 13-14 | 50-100 | Overhead 1 to 3 am | Medium |
| Ursids | Dec 22-23 | 15-25 | North all night | Medium |
Learn More About Each Meteor Shower Event
