Easily the most famous of the annual meteor showers, the Orionids are the bright streaks of light that result when Halley’s Comet approaches the sun and sheds debris, leaving a trail of space material in its wake. This guide will explain the importance of the Orionid meteor shower, and how best you can view it.
What is the Orionid meteor shower?
The Orionid meteor shower happens each year when Earth moves through Halley’s Comet’s trail of debris. The Orionids are named for the constellation Orion, as the meteors seem to emanate from that part of the sky.
When and Where to Watch
The Orionid meteor shower is active from early October to late November, peaking around October 21st each year. At peak, ideal conditions may yield you up to 20 meteors per hour1. The Orionids peak’s best time to see them is post-midnight, when the constellation Orion is well up in the sky.
Viewing Tips
- Find a Dark Sky: Light pollution can greatly reduce the number of meteors seen. Look up the weather forecast and try to observe on a night with as little cloud cover as possible.
- Get Cozy: Pack a blanket or a reclining chair so you can recline and comfortably watch the sky. Dress warmly — nights in October can be cold.
- Cloud Avoidance: Some types of clouds can block visibility of meteors. If you’re trying to catch meteors, do so opposite the moon2.
The super science geeky behind Orionids
One of the most famous comets in history, Halley’s Comet is the parent body of the Orionid meteor shower. It orbits the sun roughly once every 76 years and trails debris behind it. As Earth passes through this stream, the particles hit our atmosphere at high velocities, producing the bright meteors we observe during the Orionid shower3.
Why the Orionids are Special
The Orionid meteor shower is both eye candy and a link to a historic comet. Halley’s Comet has been seen by humans for centuries, and the Orionids serve as a connection to our astronomical past. Every meteor you watch is an object with cosmic history, a remnant of a comet that has been crossing through the solar system for thousands of years.
Conclusion
Stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts should not miss the annual Orionid meteor shower. With the tips above, you can increase your opportunity to see this beautiful display of nature. So circle that date on your calendar, find a dark place to watch the show, and revel as the debris of Halley’s Comet lights up the night sky.
