Spectacular Quadrantid meteor shower can be viewed in the UK tonight – details

Millions across the UK are set to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking displays tonight as the Quadrantid meteor shower reaches its peak.

With the potential to see up to 120 meteors per hour, according to the Royal Greenwich Observatory, this event is not to be missed. 

In 2025, the Quadrantid meteor shower reaches its peak and be most visible on the nights of Friday, January 3, and Saturday, January 4.

The Quadrantids are visible in the UK between December 26 and January 12, with the most vibrant displays occurring at their peak in early January.

Meteors are formed when debris from space enters Earth’s atmosphere and burns up, creating a bright streak of light often called a shooting star.

The shower typically reaches its peak around 2am GMT, with the best viewing conditions around this time, especially after midnight when the sky is darkest.

Unlike some other meteor showers, the Quadrantids tend to have a short, sharp peak, making timing crucial.

Wide-open spaces with an unobstructed view of the night sky, such as national parks or countryside areas, offer the best conditions.

According to the Royal Observatory, you’ll want to watch for “bluish or yellowish-white meteors with fine trails.”

The Quadrantid meteor shower peaks every January, delivering up to 200 meteors per hour under optimal conditions, including stunning bright fireballs, according to NASA.

For the best view of the meteor shower, NASA recommends finding a dark area away from city lights and to enhance your chances of seeing the meteors clearly, allow your eyes to adjust to the dark for about half an hour.