In Missouri, the Leonids are best around 5:12 AM on the night of the peak (November 17, 2026), when the radiant stands about 67° high. Under a truly dark sky you could see roughly 14 meteors per hour. Astronomical darkness runs from 6:27 PM to 5:20 AM, and the moon will be 51% lit and below the horizon at the best time.
Best time
5:12 AM
local time
Est. rate
14/h
dark sky
Radiant
67° high
toward SE
Moon
51%
down
Dark places to watch the Leonids in Missouri
| Location | Type | Est. Bortle |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Gulf State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Montauk State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Dillard Mill State Historic Site | State Park | 2 |
| Sam A. Baker State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Current River State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Pomme de Terre State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Eleven Point State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Bryant Creek State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Big Oak Tree State Park | State Park | 3 |
FAQ
What time should I watch the Leonids in Missouri?
Around 5:12 AM local time on the peak night, but any time between dusk and dawn can produce meteors.