Night Sky Spectacle: Meteors and Comets Light Up October
This week, sky gazers are in for a treat. The Orionid meteor shower is reaching its peak, and two comets are also making an appearance. This is a great chance to see some amazing celestial events.
Orionid Meteor Shower
The Orionids are known for their speed. They zip across the sky, leaving bright trails. Some even leave behind gas trails that linger. While there might be a few bright fireballs, they are not the main feature of this shower.
Best Time to Watch
- Late evening until early morning
- Peak activity: Up to 20 meteors per hour
- Duration: Until late November (but meteor numbers will decrease)
Origin
The Orionids come from the debris of Halley's Comet. As Earth passes through this debris, it burns up in our atmosphere, creating the meteor shower. With no moon to interfere, the skies will be dark, making it easier to see the meteors.
Comets in the Night Sky
In addition to the meteor shower, two comets are visible:
- Comet Lemmon: Low in the northwest, near the Big Dipper
- Comet SWAN: Low in the south, below the star Altair
How to See the Comets
- Best time: About 90 minutes after sunset
- Equipment: Binoculars recommended, but visible with the naked eye in dark areas
Enjoy the Show
This is a great opportunity to enjoy the night sky. So, find a dark spot, look up, and enjoy the show.