Orionid Meteor Shower Peaks Early Wednesday Morning Across the United States

The Orionid meteor shower, caused by Earth passing through debris left by comet Halley, will peak in the pre-dawn sky on Oct. 21-22. The best viewing period runs from roughly 2 a.m. local time until sunrise, when the bright waxing gibbous moon has already set and Orion has climbed above the southern horizon. Astronomers estimate the shower will produce about 15-18 meteors per hour, far above the typical six sporadic meteors seen outside of showers.

To maximize sightings, observers should face south and scan 40-60 degrees on either side of the radiant point just left of Betelgeuse. Dark locations are recommended, and no telescopes or binoculars are required, though a 30-minute eye-adjustment period helps. Those who miss the early window can try again after Orion rises later on Oct. 22. The night also features visible planets, with Saturn bright in the southeast and a near-full moon aligning close to Neptune on Oct. 23.