Orionid Meteor Shower Begins As Earth Crosses Halley Comet Debris

The Orionid meteor shower is active until 7 November, offering fast-moving meteors that can leave glowing trails in the night sky for a few seconds. This annual display happens when Earth passes through a trail of dust and debris left by Halley's Comet. The meteors travel at about 41 miles per second as they enter the atmosphere, heat up, and produce bright streaks of light.

Viewing Details

The shower peaks overnight from 21 to 22 October, when watchers can expect to see around 10 to 20 meteors each hour under ideal conditions. Viewers do not need binoculars or telescopes, as the shower is best seen with the naked eye. Experts recommend finding a dark location away from street lights with a wide view of the sky, and allowing 15 to 20 minutes for eyes to adjust. Viewing prospects on Friday evening are mixed, with clear spells likely in southern and eastern parts of England, while Wales, the Midlands, and Northern England face clouds and rain. Scotland and Northern Ireland will see a mix of clear periods, patchy cloud, and showers. Later in October, the Moon could make fainter meteors harder to see as it builds toward its full phase on 26 October, though brighter meteors will remain visible.

Context

Halley's Comet orbits the Sun every 76 years and was last seen from Earth in 1986, with its next return expected in 2061. Even though the comet itself is far away, Earth crosses its orbital path twice a year to create both the Orionids in October and the Eta Aquariid meteor shower in May. The meteors appear to radiate from the constellation of Orion, known for its recognisable hourglass shape.