In Kansas, the Orionids are best around 5:42 AM on the night of the peak (October 21, 2026), when the radiant stands about 67° high. Under a truly dark sky you could see roughly 18 meteors per hour. Astronomical darkness runs from 8:12 PM to 6:14 AM, and the moon will be 76% lit and below the horizon at the best time.
Best time
5:42 AM
local time
Est. rate
18/h
dark sky
Radiant
67° high
toward S
Moon
76%
down
Dark places to watch the Orionids in Kansas
| Location | Type | Est. Bortle |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar Bluff State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Wilson State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Lake Scott State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Pawnee Indian Museum State Historic Site | State Park | 2 |
| Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Meade State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Mushroom Rock State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Kanopolis State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Cross Timbers State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Kaw Mission | State Park | 2 |
FAQ
What time should I watch the Orionids in Kansas?
Around 5:42 AM local time on the peak night, but any time between dusk and dawn can produce meteors.