Up to 110 meteors an hour: Quadrantid Meteor Shower peaks tonight!

The first major meteor shower of the year will reach its peak tonight, with up to 110 shooting stars an hour… viewing conditions will be mixed with showers in some areas.

Ready to make a wish? The Quadrantid Meteor Shower, which has been active since late December, reaches its peak Tuesday evening, into the early hours of Wednesday.

It is one of the most reliable showers each year for the number of visible meteors on display, with some peaks delivering up to 110 meteors an hour, and many with more than 60 an hour.

This shower is named after the constellation formerly known as Quadrans Muralis, which now resides within the Boötes constellation.

It is known for producing bright blue meteors with long, faint tails. Radiating from the Boötes constellation those in the Northern Hemisphere should look towards this constellation, which sits close to the Big Dipper for easier locating.

Unlike many showers which have a long period of peak activity, the Quadrantids are at their most active for just a few hours after midnight.

Like any astronomical event, for the best chance at spotting a shooting star, it is optimal to find a dark area away from cities where light pollution can obscure the view. With the moon currently in its third quarter, some fainter meteors may be hidden in the moonlight.

As the peak arrives, showers line the west and east coasts of the UK, as well as parts of central Ireland. Those along the southern English coastline and in East Anglia will see the clearest skies to begin with.

A little later, approaching 02:00 am, rain and cloud eases, providing clearer views across Ireland and southern Wales. Track visibility for yourself with the WeatherRadar.