Overview
- The annual shower is predicted to reach maximum activity overnight Dec. 21–22, with the best viewing just before sunrise around 5 a.m. ET.
- Meteors are produced by debris from comet 8P/Tuttle as Earth passes through the comet’s trail.
- The radiant lies in Ursa Minor near Polaris, keeping the shower well placed for viewers across the Northern Hemisphere.
- Observers need no telescope; choose a dark site, allow about 20 minutes for eyes to adapt, dress warmly, and use a wide, reclining view.
- If weather or light pollution hinders viewing, apps such as Sky Tonight offer real-time guidance and livestream options, with Star Walk providing timing forecasts.