Full Breakdown
Orionids Meteor Shower Peaks in Late October
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Event Overview
The Orionids meteor shower is currently active and will remain so until 7 November. Its peak occurs overnight from 21 to 22 October, when the Earth passes through a dense stream of debris. The BBC notes that meteors in this shower enter the atmosphere at roughly 41 miles per second and can leave brief luminous trails that persist for a few seconds after the meteor itself disappears.
Origin and Characteristics
The Orionids originate from dust and small particles shed by Halley’s Comet, a 76-year-period comet last visible from Earth in 1986 and not expected again until 2061. As the Earth traverses this debris each October, the particles heat up and create the visible streaks. Halley’s Comet also supplies the Eta Aquariid shower in May, making the comet responsible for two annual meteor displays. The meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Orion, giving the shower its name, though they can be seen across the whole sky.
Viewing Conditions in the United Kingdom
The BBC advises that the best chances to observe the Orionids are in southern and eastern England, where clear spells are expected despite occasional cloud drift. Wales, the Midlands, and northern England may face more cloud cover and rain, reducing visibility. Observers should seek a dark site away from street lights, allow 15 to 20 minutes for their eyes to adjust, and view the sky with the naked eye—binoculars or telescopes are unnecessary. Under ideal conditions, the BBC estimates 10 to 20 meteors per hour at the shower’s peak.
Moonlight Influence
The Moon will be waxing toward full on 26 October, and its increasing brightness could obscure fainter meteors during the peak period. The BBC cautions that while brighter meteors should remain visible, the moonlight may make the dimmer ones harder to detect, especially from locations with residual light pollution.