How to Catch a Shooting Star in Animal Crossing: A Step-by-Step Guide – In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, shooting stars are one of the most magical events you can experience on your island. Not only do they provide a chance to gaze at the sparkling night sky, but they also reward you with Star Fragments, a rare material used to craft celestial-themed DIY items.

If you’re new to the game or just haven’t encountered shooting stars yet, don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about spotting, wishing on, and collecting rewards from shooting stars.

What Are Shooting Stars in Animal Crossing?

Shooting stars are a random celestial phenomenon in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. They streak across the night sky, and when you make a wish upon one, you’ll receive Star Fragments on your beach the next day. These fragments are essential for crafting various celestial items, including those from the zodiac series.

Shooting stars typically occur during Meteor Showers, which are announced in advance by Isabelle during her daily morning broadcasts. However, individual shooting stars can also appear on clear nights, even without an official Meteor Shower.

When and Where to See Shooting Stars

1. Check the Weather

Shooting stars only appear on clear or mostly clear nights. Cloudy skies or rain will prevent shooting stars from appearing. If the stars in the sky are clearly visible, there’s a good chance you might see one.

2. Listen for Isabelle’s Announcements

When a Meteor Shower is scheduled, Isabelle will announce it during her morning broadcast. This is the best time to spot shooting stars, as they occur more frequently during Meteor Showers than on regular clear nights.

3. Play During the Evening Hours

Shooting stars typically appear between 7 PM and 4 AM. While you don’t have to stay up all night, the most activity is often observed around the middle of this window.

How to Prepare for Shooting Stars

1. Clear Your Schedule

Once you know a Meteor Shower is happening, make sure to set aside time to play in the evening. The more time you spend outside under the night sky, the greater your chances of seeing shooting stars.

2. Choose a Good Viewing Spot

Find an open area on your island where you can get an unobstructed view of the sky. Remove any tall trees, buildings, or other structures that might block your view.

3. Unequip Tools

To wish on shooting stars, you need to have your hands free. Unequip any tools or items you’re holding by pressing down on the D-pad.

4. Dress for the Occasion

While it’s not mandatory, many players enjoy wearing star-themed clothing or accessories during Meteor Showers to fully immerse themselves in the event.

How to Catch a Shooting Star

Catching a shooting star in Animal Crossing: New Horizons isn’t about using tools but rather making a wish. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Look at the Sky

Tilt your camera upward by pressing the Right Stick on your controller. This will give you a clear view of the night sky.

Step 2: Wait for a Shooting Star

Stay still and listen closely for the soft twinkling sound that signals the approach of a shooting star. Keep your eyes on the sky and be patient—it might take a few moments for the first star to appear.

Step 3: Press “A” to Make a Wish

When you see a shooting star streaking across the sky, press the A button quickly. Your character will clasp their hands together and make a wish.

Step 4: Repeat the Process

Multiple shooting stars often appear during Meteor Showers, so keep watching the sky and wishing on as many stars as possible.

What Happens After Wishing on Shooting Stars?

The next morning, head to your beach to collect your rewards. You’ll find Star Fragments washed up on the shore. The number of Star Fragments you receive corresponds to the number of wishes you made the night before, with some limits:

• Small Star Fragments: The most common type, used in most celestial DIY recipes.
• Large Star Fragments: Less common but essential for certain recipes.
• Zodiac Star Fragments: Special fragments based on the zodiac sign of the current month.

For example, during Aries season (March 21 to April 19), you might find Aries Fragments.

How to Maximize Your Wishing Experience

1. Invite Friends to Your Island

If you have friends visiting your island during a Meteor Shower, they can also wish on shooting stars. Plus, the more wishes made on your island, the more Star Fragments you might find the next day.

2. Make as Many Wishes as Possible

While the number of Star Fragments you receive is capped, making multiple wishes ensures you hit that limit. Keep wishing throughout the event for the best results.

3. Time Travel for More Opportunities

If you miss a Meteor Shower or want to experience another one, you can use the in-game time-travel feature to revisit dates with clear skies.

Crafting with Star Fragments

Once you’ve collected Star Fragments, you can use them to craft celestial DIY items. These recipes are often obtained from Celeste, Blathers’ stargazing sister.

How to Get DIY Recipes from Celeste

Celeste visits your island during nights with clear skies, especially during Meteor Showers. When you speak to her, she’ll give you a random celestial-themed DIY recipe. Some of the most popular recipes include:

• Star Wand: A magical wand that lets you switch outfits instantly.
• Requires: 3 Star Fragments, 1 Large Star Fragment
• Zodiac Furniture: Items themed around the zodiac signs, like the Aries Rocking Chair or Taurus Bathtub.
• Starry Garlands: Beautiful decorations for your home or outdoor areas.

Tips for a Memorable Meteor Shower Experience

Decorate Your Island: Set up outdoor seating areas or picnic spots to enjoy the event with friends.
Take Screenshots: Capture the magical moment by using the in-game camera feature.
Listen to Celeste’s Stories: If you meet Celeste, she often shares fun facts about constellations and astronomy.

Final Thoughts

Catching shooting stars in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is more than just an opportunity to gather crafting materials—it’s a chance to enjoy the peaceful beauty of the game’s world. By following this guide, you’ll be prepared to make the most of every Meteor Shower and collect plenty of Star Fragments for crafting.

Whether you’re crafting a Star Wand, building zodiac furniture, or simply enjoying the night sky, wishing on shooting stars is one of the most enchanting activities in Animal Crossing. So grab your net, find a clear night, and start wishing—you never know what magical rewards await!