Where to watch the 2026 Leonid Meteor Shower near Vancouver
Fast, bright meteors from Comet Tempel-Tuttle streak out of the constellation Leo.
The short answer
Leonid Meteor Shower peaks on Tuesday, November 17 near Vancouver. Expect about 5.5 hours of moon-free darkness, with astronomical twilight ending at 6:19 PM and returning at 5:35 AM. The moon is 58 percent lit, which means moderate interference. At 11:57 PM the radiant sits 10 degrees up in the east-northeast. Under ideal dark skies the shower can produce up to 15 meteors an hour.
| Peak (local) | Tuesday, November 17 at 4:31 PM PDT |
|---|---|
| Sunset | 5:28 PM |
| Fully dark | 7:19 PM to 6:35 AM |
| Dark hours | 5.5 h |
| Moon | 58% lit · rises 2:40 PM, sets 1:09 AM |
Questions people ask
What is the best time to watch the Leonid Meteor Shower near Vancouver?
The best time to watch the Leonid Meteor Shower is after fully dark conditions begin at 6:19 PM on November 17. The peak activity is expected around 11:57 PM, when the radiant point will be visible in the east-northeast.
Where are the best spots to watch the meteor shower near Vancouver?
Some great spots to watch the Leonid Meteor Shower include Golden Ears Provincial Park, Alouette Lake, and Cypress Mountain Highview Lookout. These locations offer darker skies, which enhance your viewing experience.
How will the moon affect my viewing of the meteor shower?
The moon will be 58 percent lit during the meteor shower, which means it may cause moderate interference with visibility. However, there will be about 5.5 hours of moon-free darkness after sunset, allowing for better viewing conditions.
Which direction should I look to see the meteors?
You should look towards the east-northeast to see the meteors, especially around 11:57 PM when the radiant point is at an altitude of 10 degrees. This is where most of the meteors will appear to originate.
What should I bring or expect when watching the meteor shower?
Bring a blanket or reclining chair for comfort, and dress warmly as it can get chilly at night. Expect to see about 15 meteors per hour under ideal conditions, so be patient and enjoy the show!
