Every year, meteor showers pass through the Earth's atmosphere, allowing us to admire shooting stars in great numbers several times a year. This August sees the most beautiful shower of the year, the Perseids. From July 20 to August 25, 2026, these stars will light up France, and the weather should be just right - right in the middle of summer! In fact, this is the best time of the year to observe the shooting stars under clear skies, enjoying a moment of coolness after the heat of the day.
The peak of activity this year is expected on the night of August 12, from midnight onwards, during which you'll be able to spot a shooting star every minute or so! Nearly a hundred meteors are expected per hour, making this the most intense shower of the year. We're very lucky that this year's Moon will be new, so it won't interfere with our visibility, making it easy to observe the meteors!
As far as possible, try to position yourself towards the northeast and the constellation Perseus, where the meteors originate, at the bottom of the W formed by the constellation Cassiopeia. They come from comet 109/Swift-Tuttle, which takes 133 years to circle the Sun. Don't hesitate to observe them outside the peak - they're plentiful!
The next big event will be the Geminids in December. And don't forget to make a wish!
The best spots to admire shooting stars and the sky in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Numerous shooting star nights punctuate the year, as do astronomical events, which can be admired weather permitting, in places with less pollution. But where can you find these rare gems in Paris and the Ile-de-France region? [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
From July 20, 2026 to August 25, 2026
The best spots to admire shooting stars and the sky in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
