All the meteor showers coming to Ontario in 2025

Sky enthusiasts, especially those fond of tracking “shooting stars,” may want to mark their calendars for these meteor showers happening in 2025.

Quadrantids (Dec. 15 – Jan. 17)

Originating from the dormant comet 2003 EH1, this shower is known for its sharp peaks and bright meteors. The best viewing is in the hours before dawn on Jan. 3, with the peak expected at 2 p.m. EST. A waxing crescent moon will set late on Jan. 2, allowing for dark skies. Under ideal conditions, observers can see up to 100 meteors per hour. According to earthsky.org, the Quadrantid shower is one of four major yearly meteor showers with a sharp peak. The other three are the Lyrids, Leonids and Ursids).

Lyrids (Apr. 15 – Apr. 29)

The Lyrids come from comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher and offer a mix of bright meteors along with occasional outbursts. For optimal viewing, late evening on April 21 is best before the last quarter moon rises at 8:35 p.m. EST. The peak is expected at 12 p.m. EST on April 22, with 10-15 meteors per hour visible in dark skies.

Eta Aquariids (Apr. 15 – May 27)

Originating from Halley’s Comet, the Eta Aquariids are known for fast-moving meteors with bright trails. The best time for viewing is in the early hours before dawn on May 5, with a peak anticipated at 10 a.m. EST. The first quarter moon on May 4 offers dark nights for viewing. There could be 10-20 meteors visible per hour, especially in southern latitudes.

Arietids (May 29 – Jun. 17)

The Arietids are associated with asteroid 2005 WQ3 and are notable for their daytime visibility. Peak activity occurs around June 7 primarily in the dark hour before dawn. The first quarter moon on June 3 will provide pleasant viewing conditions for the Arietids. While rates can be as high as 200 meteors per hour, most of this activity occurs during daylight, making it challenging to see many meteors.

Delta Aquariids (July 18 – Aug. 21)

This shower, originating from comet 96P/Machholz, is known for consistent activity. The Delta Aquariids peak at 4 p.m. EST on July 30. The best viewing happens late at night when the radiant rises in the evening. A first quarter moon on Aug. 2 ensures darker conditions, with about 15-20 meteors per hour expected.

Perseids (July 14 – Sept. 1)

The Perseids originate from Comet Swift-Tuttle and are famous for their bright fireballs. The shower is set to peak at 4 p.m. EST on Aug. 12, with best viewing before dawn on Aug. 11-12. While a full moon on Aug. 9 may impact visibility, optimal conditions can yield an impressive 90 meteors per hour.

Draconids (Oct. 6 – Oct. 10)

Associated with comet Giacobini-Zinner, the Draconids can sometimes produce unexpected bursts of activity. Earthsky.org says the best viewing is on the evening of Oct. 8 through early hours on Oct. 9, peaking at 2 p.m. EST. A nearby full moon on Oct. 7 may hinder visibility, typically offering around 10 meteors per hour.

Orionids (Sept. 26 – Nov. 22)

The Orionids, also from Halley’s Comet, are known for their speed and bright meteors. The peak occurs at 8 p.m. EST on Oct. 20, with the best activity after midnight on Oct. 21. A new moon will also occur on Oct. 21, allowing for dark skies. Skywatchers can expect around 10-20 meteors per hour.

Taurids (Sept. 23 – Nov. 12)

The Taurids come from Comet Encke and are recognized for their slow-moving meteors. The South Taurids peak at 8 a.m. on Nov. 5, and the North Taurids peak at 7 a.m. EST on Nov.12. Best viewing is around midnight, though a full moon on Nov. 5 may limit visibility. Roughly five meteors per hour are expected from each stream.

Leonids (Nov. 3 – Dec. 2)

Originating from comet Tempel-Tuttle, the Leonids are known for their potential storms.They are predicted to peak at 1 p.m. EST on Nov. 17 with ideal viewing happening on the night of Nov. 16 into dawn on the 17th. A new moon on Nov. 20 will provide dark skies with around 10-15 meteors per hour anticipated.

Geminids (Nov. 19 – Dec. 24)

According to earthsky.org, the Geminids are unique as they originate from asteroid 3200 Phaethon, making them one of the most reliable and colourful showers.

They peak at 10 p.m. EST on Dec. 13, 2025, visible all night on December 13-14. A waning crescent moon rising after midnight ensures excellent viewing conditions, with around 120 meteors per hour expected.

Ursids (Dec. 13 – Dec. 24)

The Ursids come from comet 8P/Tuttle and, while often overshadowed by other showers, can be a nice bonus. They peak at 6 a.m. EST on Dec. 22, with the best viewing on Dec. 21 into dawn. With a new moon on Dec. 20, there could be five meteors per hour in dark conditions.

If you are a first-time stargazer or an astronomy aficionado, here are some items to be prepared with as recommended by Space.com: 

Red flashlight — Fainter meteors require eyes to adjust to the dark, especially when you’re using a night-sky map. The red light will help preserve your night vision.

Warm clothing — It can get pretty chilly as you wait for the meteor showers. Grab a warm hat, coat, a scarf and a sleeping bag, if staying outdoors for a long period of time.

Hot drink — A hot beverage will help keep you warm. Tea and coffee are often the go to choice as it also helps you stay awake.

Deck chair —  Looking up for hours at a time could put a strain on your neck. It’s advised to use a deck chair that will keep you in an inclined position for maximum comfort.