Leonids Meteor Shower 2025: When Is the Best Time to See It Tonight?

The Leonids meteor shower 2025 is reaching its peak tonight, giving skywatchers one of the clearest viewing nights of the year. The annual display, powered by debris from comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, will light up the sky from late Nov. 16 into the early hours of Nov. 17. With the moon only 9% full, visibility is expected to be excellent.

The American Meteor Society and NASA both say the Leonids are active throughout November, but the peak window offers the brightest streaks. Under dark skies, viewers may see 10 to 15 meteors per hour. While the Leonids are famous for past meteor storms, experts say the next major outburst is not expected until 2099.

Peak Time, Visibility, and What Stargazers Should Expect

The Leonids meteor shower 2025 will peak overnight from Sunday, Nov. 16 into Monday, Nov. 17. The radiant point sits in the constellation Leo, rising in the eastern sky. However, NASA notes that meteors can appear from any direction, so full-sky viewing is recommended. A wide, unobstructed field of view increases the chance of spotting fast, bright streaks.

Unlike some meteor showers this year, the Leonids benefit from a very dark sky. The waning crescent moon will not interfere with the show. This makes the 2025 Leonids one of the easier showers to watch, especially compared with the recent Taurids, which were affected by bright moonlight.

The meteor shower originates from dusty fragments shed by comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle. Historically, this comet has caused several storms, including massive outbursts in 1833, 1866, 1966, 1999, 2001, and 2002. NASA records show the 1966 storm produced over 1,000 meteors per hour in some regions. While 2025 will not bring storm-level activity, it still provides a notable celestial display.

Experts advise giving your eyes 20–30 minutes to adapt to darkness. Avoid screens, bright lights, and heavy light pollution. A blanket, chair, and warm clothing can make extended viewing more comfortable.

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How the 2025 Leonids Fit Into This Year’s Meteor Calendar

The 2025 meteor calendar has been busy, with the Quadrantids, Lyrids, Eta Aquariids, and multiple Taurid showers already passing their peaks. The Leonids are one of the final major showers of the year before the Geminids arrive in December.

The American Meteor Society lists the Geminids, which peak Dec. 13–14, and the Ursids, which peak Dec. 21–22, as the final notable shows of 2025. The Ursids also benefit from minimal moonlight, making them the second-brightest viewing opportunity after the Leonids this year.

As the Leonids meteor shower 2025 peaks tonight, skywatchers have an excellent opportunity for a clear view. With low moonlight, an active radiant, and ideal timing, this is one of the best nights of the year to watch the sky light up.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time does the Leonids meteor shower 2025 peak?

The Leonids peak overnight from Nov. 16 to Nov. 17. The best viewing window is after midnight until dawn.

Q2: Where do the Leonids appear in the sky?

The meteors appear to come from the constellation Leo in the eastern sky. But they can streak across any part of the sky.

Q3: How many meteors can we expect this year?

Most observers will see about 10 to 15 meteors an hour under dark skies. Rates are higher in rural or low-light areas.

Q4: Do I need a telescope to watch the Leonids?

No. A telescope can limit your view. The naked eye provides the best experience for wide-sky meteor watching.

Q5: When will the next Leonid meteor storm happen?

Experts say the next major storm is expected around 2099 when comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle returns.

References

Associated Press. (2025). “Leonid meteor shower set to peak under dark skies.” Published 2025.

BBC News. (2025). “Leonids to light up November night sky as annual meteor shower peaks.” Published 2025.

CNN. (2025). “How to watch the Leonid meteor shower this month.” Published 2025.