The Orionids meteor shower
(Picture: Shutterstock)It is a great month to be an astronomy fan as not only is the UK set to experience a partial solar eclipse, but it will have a visible meteor shower, too.
We had already experienced a beautiful Draconid meteor shower at the start of October, which saw shooting stars light up the northern hemisphere.
Now, we are in for a treat with Orinoids, which NASA describes as “one of the most beautiful meteor showers of the year”, with around 20 meteors traveling across the sky each hour.
But when exactly can you catch the Orionid meteor shower and where can you see it in the UK?
Here’s everything we know.
When can I see the Orionid meteor shower?
The Orionid meteor shower technically began at the start of October.
The shower will remain active until early November, but your chances of enjoying a beautiful astronomical spectacle are the highest on Friday, October 21, and Saturday, October 22, from midnight until dawn.
If you end up missing this meteor shower, don’t worry, because the Taurid meteor shower will be here in mid-November to give us another show. They are set to be visible on November 12 and November 13.
Where can I see the Orionid meteor shower in the UK?
Viewing conditions for the Orionids are very favourable this year, with relatively little moonlight getting in the way and the weather not being too bad.
The showers will be visible to the naked eye during night-time across the UK, so you don’t need to worry about telescopes or binoculars.
The best viewing points will be those that are as far away from heavy light pollution as possible. The darker your location is, the better.
Also, try to avoid looking at light sources, so that your eyes can adjust to the night’s darkness and give you the most detailed view.
