Taurid Meteor Shower 2026 Set for Peak Views With New Moon Backdrop

A meteor shower famous for its fireballs will be visible around the world next week. Although the Northern Taurid Meteor Shower does not peak until three days later, the best opportunity to catch its renowned shooting stars is Monday the 9th, when the New Moon guarantees the least amount of light pollution. That will be key to enjoying the Northern Taurid Meteor Shower and their famously long, luminescent tails that streak across the sky.

This celestial event produces around 8-12 shooting stars per hour. Tuesday the 10th would be likely just as good a time, as a 1-day-old moon is not likely to create much of a glare. Stargazers eager to witness the phenomenon will find that the dark skies offer ideal conditions for spotting the glowing trails.

Celestial Photography Tips for Amateurs

If you have ever fancied trying celestial photography, the long Taurus tails make for excellent subject matter. Amateurs can simply place their camera’s mode setting on shutter priority and slow the speed down for a 20 or 30-second exposure.

To capture the display, place the camera on a tripod with the widest field of view and aim it at the constellation of Taurus, where it will appear the meteors emanate from. Taurus is located just northeast of Orion and contains the Pleiades. Because the peak of the meteor shower will be closer to the 12th, any night next week could well produce a great show for observers heading outdoors.