Taurids 2026: Southern and Northern Taurids calendar
The Taurids are an unusual meteor shower — in fact, they consist of two separate branches, the Southern and Northern Taurids, active at different times in autumn. Although the number of meteors per hour is low, the Taurids are famous for bright, slow fireballs that can be spectacular even when activity is modest.
Also see the meteor shower calendar and the 2026 astronomical events calendar.
Meteor shower calendar 2026
Compare peak dates, shower activity, Moon conditions and the best observing nights.
View meteor calendar
Astronomical events calendar 2026
Check the most important sky events month by month and plan your observations in advance.
View astronomical events calendarTaurids 2026 – key facts
Taurids 2026 — key facts at a glance
The table below summarizes the key information you need to plan your observations: date, conditions, location and practical preparation.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SEPTEMBER 2026
Monthly guide
Sky events in September 2026: meteors, equinox and the Moon
Sky events in September 2026: ε-Perseids, New Moon, equinox, Neptune, Full Moon, aurora, space missions and the best observing nights in Poland.
Open guide
OCTOBER 2026
Monthly guide
Sky events in October 2026: Draconids, Orionids and Saturn
Sky events in October 2026: Saturn, Draconids, New Moon, Orionids, Taurids, Full Moon, space missions and the best observing nights.
Open guideWhen are the Taurids in 2026?
The Southern Taurids reach their main maximum around November 5, while the Northern Taurids peak around November 12, 2026. Earlier, around October 13, an additional increase in Southern Taurid activity may occur, but it should not be presented as the shower’s main maximum.
Where should you look for the Taurids?
The radiants of both branches lie in the constellation Taurus, which is well visible on autumn evenings. Because the meteor rate is low, patience is important — the reward can be bright, long-lasting fireballs that are easy to notice even without watching continuously.
Will the Moon interfere in 2026?
Moon conditions for the Taurids in 2026 are very favorable. According to the IMO calendar, the highest Southern Taurid activity occurs around November 5, while the Northern Taurids peak around November 12 — during a period with very little interfering moonlight. New Moon falls on November 9, so especially good conditions will also occur between the main maxima of the two branches.
What are the Taurids and where do they come from?
Both Taurid branches come from the same source — comet 2P/Encke, which has the shortest known orbital period around the Sun among periodic comets (about 3.3 years). The division into Southern and Northern branches results from the complex structure of the stream left by the comet over thousands of years.
How to prepare for the Taurids in 10 minutes
- Do not expect a large number of meteors — patience matters, along with the chance of seeing a bright fireball.
- Bring very warm clothing, especially in November.
- Choose a comfortable place for a longer, relaxed observing session.
- Check the Moon phase and choose the darkest available night within the activity period.
- Check cloud cover in the live storm and precipitation radar.
How to photograph the Taurids
Because Taurid fireballs can be very bright, even individual long exposures have a chance of capturing a spectacular event. A tripod, wide-angle lens and patience are essential. More tips are available in the guide on how to photograph the night sky and stars.
NIGHT SKY PHOTOGRAPHY
How to photograph the night sky and meteors?
Learn camera settings, lens choice, manual focusing and how to work with a series of multiple exposures.
Frequently asked questions about the Taurids
When are the Taurids in 2026?
The main Southern Taurid maximum falls around November 5, while the Northern Taurids peak around November 12, 2026. An earlier, weaker Southern Taurid maximum may occur around October 13.
Why are there two Taurid branches?
The Southern and Northern Taurids come from the same comet, 2P/Encke, but from a complex stream structure formed over thousands of years.
Why are the Taurids known for fireballs?
The shower’s particles are larger than those in many other showers, producing fewer but much brighter and slower meteors.
Where do the Taurids come from?
Their source is comet 2P/Encke, which has the shortest orbital period among known periodic comets.
Are the Taurids worth observing despite their low activity?
Yes, especially if you want a chance to see a bright fireball — despite their low ZHR, the Taurids can produce some of the most spectacular meteors.
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Read next: more meteor showers and tools
Compare neighboring showers, check the Moon phase and prepare your camera before your next observing night.
Orionids 2026
Check the previous shower in the annual calendar, its peak, Moon conditions and best observing hours.
View previous showerLeonids 2026
Go to the next shower and plan your observing location, time and an alternative night in case of cloud.
View next shower
Moon phases 2026
Compare the shower peak with the full Moon, new Moon, moonrise and moonset before choosing your observing night.
Check Moon phasesHow to photograph the night sky and meteors
Camera and phone settings, tripod, focus, ISO, exposure time and preparing a sequence of images for meteors.
Open photography guide