Leonids Meteor Shower

The Leonids meteor shower is an average meteor shower producing up to 15 meteors per hour at its peak. This shower is unique in that it has a cyclonic peak about every 33 years where hundreds of meteors per hour can be seen. That last occurred in 2001. It is produced by dust grains left behind by comet Tempet-Tuttle, which was discovered in 1865. The shower runs annually from November 6-30. It peaks in 2025 on the night of the 17th and morning of the 18th. The thin crescent moon won't be much of a problem and it should be a great show. The best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Leo but can appear anywhere in the sky.

Guests are welcome to gather on the Observation Field during this event and watch for meteors. We recommend chairs or blankets for stargazing during this event because of the wide-open space. Telescopes and binoculars are not necessary. Parking is available in the Visitor Center parking lot and the restrooms will be open. There will be no ranger present during this self-guided event.

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