Where to watch the 2026 Ursid Meteor Shower near Kelowna
A 98% lit moon will wash out the fainter meteors of Ursid Meteor Shower.
The short answer
Ursid Meteor Shower peaks on Tuesday, December 22 near Kelowna. Expect about 0 hours of moon-free darkness, with astronomical twilight ending at 5:58 PM and returning at 5:55 AM. The moon is 99 percent lit, so moonlight will wash out fainter meteors. At 11:56 PM the radiant sits 40 degrees up in the north-northeast. Under ideal dark skies the shower can produce up to 10 meteors an hour. 2 nearby spots have properly dark skies.
| Peak (local) | Tuesday, December 22 at 2:54 PM PDT |
|---|---|
| Sunset | 4:59 PM |
| Fully dark | 6:58 PM to 6:55 AM |
| Dark hours | 0.0 h |
| Moon | 99% lit · rises 4:21 PM, sets 9:04 AM |
Questions people ask
What is the best time to watch the Ursid Meteor Shower near Kelowna?
The Ursid Meteor Shower peaks on Tuesday, December 22, with the best viewing time after fully dark conditions begin at 5:58 PM. The radiant point will be highest in the sky around 11:56 PM.
Where should I go to watch the meteor shower?
For optimal viewing, consider heading to Big White Road Pullouts or Okanagan Lake Provincial Park, which offer darker skies. These locations are less affected by light pollution, enhancing your chances of seeing more meteors.
What is the moon situation during the Ursid Meteor Shower?
The moon will be 99 percent lit during the shower, which means it will significantly wash out fainter meteors. The moon rises at 3:21 PM and sets at 8:04 AM, so expect very little moon-free darkness.
Which direction should I look to see the meteors?
You should look towards the north-northeast, where the radiant of the Ursid Meteor Shower will be located. At its peak around 11:56 PM, the radiant will be about 40 degrees above the horizon.
What should I bring or expect for the meteor shower viewing?
Dress warmly as it can get chilly at night, and bring blankets or reclining chairs for comfort. A thermos of hot drink and some snacks can make your experience more enjoyable, but remember that the bright moonlight will wash out many meteors.
