The Quadrantids are the first major meteor shower of the year, arriving in early January with a brief but often spectacular display. Known for their bright meteors and occasional fireballs, they can rival the Geminids and Perseids at their best. The challenge is their short peak, which lasts only a few hours.
- Duration: December 28, 2025–January 12, 2026.
- Predicted Peak: ~02:00 UTC on January 4, 2026.
- Hourly Rate: Up to 100–120 meteors per hour at peak under ideal conditions.
- Radiant: Near the constellation Boötes, not far from the handle of the Big Dipper.
- Parent Body: Asteroid 2003 EH1, believed to be an extinct comet.
- Moon Phase: Waxing gibbous (67% illuminated) on January 4, 2026. Moonlight will interfere, but brighter meteors may still be visible.
Radiant Point of the Quadrantid Meteor Shower
The Quadrantids get their name from an old, now-unused constellation called Quadrans Muralis. Today, the radiant lies within the boundaries of Boötes, near the Big Dipper. The radiant rises high in the northern sky during the late night and early morning hours.
Because the peak is so short, locating the radiant quickly is important. Apps or star charts can guide you to Boötes, but remember: meteors will streak across all parts of the sky, not just near the radiant.
Parent Body of the Quadrantid Meteor Shower
Unlike most showers that come from comets, the Quadrantids originate from asteroid 2003 EH1, which astronomers believe may be the rocky core of a dead comet. This unusual origin helps explain the sharp, dense peak of the shower.
2003 EH1 orbits the Sun every 5.5 years, and its debris trail is what Earth encounters each January. Though the asteroid itself is small, the stream it left behind produces one of the most impressive meteor showers of the year.
History of the Quadrantid Meteor Shower
The Quadrantids were first reported in the early 19th century. Their name comes from the obsolete constellation Quadrans Muralis, which was used by astronomers at the time. Today, even though the constellation is no longer recognized, the meteor shower keeps its historic name.
The shower is famous for its extremely short peak, lasting only about 6 hours. In years when skies are dark and clear, observers lucky enough to catch that narrow window can see well over 100 meteors per hour. Miss the peak by a night, though, and the show may be barely noticeable.
How to Observe a Meteor Shower?
The Quadrantid Meteor Shower, like most meteor showers, does not require any telescope or binoculars. In fact, wide, unobstructed views of the sky are best. Here are some practical tips to maximize your experience:
- Get to a remote spot away from the city lights. The farther from light pollution, the better.
- Avoid bright light and screens; give your eyes half an hour to adjust fully.
- Meteors radiate from Ursa Minor, but they’ll streak in every direction. Look high overhead.
- Bundle up—December nights demand serious winter gear.
- Carry a blanket, chair, and hot drinks to stay comfortable for the long watch.
Refer to our Meteor Shower Calendar!
