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The Draconid meteor shower peaks on Oct. 8 before bedtime. Here's how to see it
Space • • science
Key Points:
- The Draconid meteor shower will peak on October 8, with meteors visible from October 6 to 10 as Earth passes through debris from Comet 21P/Giacobini-Zinner.
- Unlike most meteor showers, the Draconids are best viewed in the evening a few hours after sunset, making them accessible to both beginners and experienced stargazers.
- The radiant point for the Draconids is in the constellation Draco, visible in the northwestern sky after sunset, with peak activity expected around 9 p.m. EDT on October 8.
- Under ideal conditions, observers can expect about 5 meteors per hour at peak, though rare outbursts have produced hundreds per minute in past years, linked to debris concentration near the comet's orbit.
- The 2026 viewing conditions will be excellent due to a minimal moonlight phase, enhancing visibility of even faint meteors, and enthusiasts are encouraged to prepare for astrophotography.
