Discover the Orionid Meteor Shower Peak This Week: Key Details to Know
This week, sky-watchers will experience an exciting event as the Orionid meteor shower reaches its peak. This celestial spectacle is anticipated to occur on Monday at 8 p.m. ET. It is known for its brilliant displays and occasional fireballs that light up the night sky.
Orionid Meteor Shower Peak Details
The Orionid meteor shower is special this year due to its coinciding with a new moon. The darkened sky will allow for clearer visibility of the meteors, as the moonlight won’t overshadow their brilliance. Under optimal conditions, observers can expect to witness between 10 and 20 meteors per hour.
Viewing Recommendations
- Best time to observe: 10 p.m. Monday night or 4-5 a.m. Tuesday morning, local time.
- Look towards the southern sky for the best view.
According to Robert Lunsford, the fireball report coordinator for the American Meteor Society, if clouds obstruct the view on the peak night, do not be discouraged. The activity will remain similar in the following nights as well.
The Source of the Shower
The Orionid meteors originate from the debris left behind by Halley’s Comet, which occurs as Earth passes through during October. Lunsford points out that Halley’s Comet crosses Earth’s orbit twice: producing the Orionids in October and the Eta Aquariids in early May.
Last seen from Earth in 1986, Halley’s Comet has an orbital period of about 76 years. It is expected to return in 2061.
Upcoming Meteor Showers
In addition to the Orionids, several meteor showers are also on the calendar for this year:
| Meteor Shower | Peak Dates |
|---|---|
| Southern Taurids | November 4-5 |
| Northern Taurids | November 11-12 |
| Leonids | November 16-17 |
| Geminids | December 13-14 |
| Ursids | December 21-22 |
Additionally, two full supermoons will occur later this year, known as the Beaver Moon on November 5 and the Cold Moon on December 4. Observers should seize these opportunities to enjoy both remarkable meteor showers and lunar events.
