In Pennsylvania, the Ursids are best around 5:37 AM on the night of the peak (December 22, 2026), when the radiant stands about 50° high. Under a truly dark sky you could see roughly 8 meteors per hour. Astronomical darkness runs from 6:22 PM to 5:50 AM, and the moon will be 96% lit and above the horizon at the best time.
Best time
5:37 AM
local time
Est. rate
8/h
dark sky
Radiant
50° high
toward NNE
Moon
96%
up
Dark places to watch the Ursids in Pennsylvania
| Location | Type | Est. Bortle |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry Springs State Park | Dark Sky Place | 2 |
| Lyman Run State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Ole Bull State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Patterson State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Prouty Place State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Denton Hill State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Sinnemahoning State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Sizerville State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Colton Point State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Leonard Harrison State Park | State Park | 2 |
FAQ
What time should I watch the Ursids in Pennsylvania?
Around 5:37 AM local time on the peak night, but any time between dusk and dawn can produce meteors.