Know when to look up
Meteor showers with the Moon's brightness at peak, Moon phases, eclipses and the time it gets truly dark where you are.
Coming up
- Leonids peak Nov 17, 2026 (IMO)
- Full Moon Nov 24, 2026, 14:53 UT (USNO)
- Geminids peak Dec 14, 2026: up to about 150 per hour in ideal skies
- Total solar eclipse Aug 2, 2027, Spain to Somalia (NASA)
Full lists in the meteor calendar and eclipse calendar.
Tools
ToolEclipse calendarSolar and lunar eclipses for 2026–2027 by region.ToolMeteor shower calendarPeak dates, rates and Moon brightness for 2026 and 2027.ToolMoon phase calendarExact phase times in your time zone, plus Moon brightness for any date.ToolDark sky calculatorSunset, twilight and full darkness for any place and date.
Guides
GuideGeminids 2026Peak Dec 14, 2026, ZHR 150, crescent Moon.GuideHow to watch a meteor showerTiming, where to look, dark adaptation and what to bring.GuideMoon phases explainedThe eight phases, rise and set times, and how to use them.GuideEclipse eye safetyISO 12312-2 glasses, pinholes, filters and totality.GuideAug 2, 2027 eclipsePath, timing and duration of the Aug 2, 2027 eclipse.
Three things that decide what you'll see
Darkness
The sky is only fully dark after astronomical twilight ends. Our calculator gives the time for your location.
The Moon
A bright Moon washes out faint meteors and stars. Check its phase before you plan.
Your site
Get away from lights, give your eyes 20–30 minutes, and keep phone screens dim.
New to the terms? Our glossary explains them in plain words.