The Orionid meteor shower, originating from the debris of Halley’s Comet, is set to peak on the night of October 20-21, 2023. Skywatchers can expect to see up to 20 meteors per hour during this celestial event, providing a remarkable opportunity for enthusiasts to witness shooting stars streaking across the night sky.
Every 76 years, Halley’s Comet makes its return to the inner solar system, releasing dust and ice particles that create a trail in its orbital path. As Earth passes through this debris trail each October, fragments enter the atmosphere, resulting in the Orionid meteor shower. The peak viewing time for this year will be between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. on the morning of the 21st, when the radiant point of the shower will be positioned above the bright red supergiant star Betelgeuse.
Optimal Viewing Conditions
For optimal viewing, observers are advised to find a location with minimal light pollution and face the darkest part of the sky. The new moon will ensure that the brightness of the lunar light does not hinder the visibility of the meteors. Unlike the more prolific Perseid and Geminid meteor showers, the Orionids can be less frequent, with waits of up to five minutes between sightings. Observers can look forward to witnessing meteors traveling at speeds exceeding 147,000 miles per hour, creating bright streaks as they vaporize upon entering the atmosphere.
It is recommended to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly during the night. A comfortable chair or blanket will enhance the experience as viewers lie back and wait for the first meteor to appear.
Two Comets to Spot
In addition to the meteor shower, two comets are currently visible in the night sky. Comet Lemmon, now located in the northwestern sky, can be found approximately a fist’s width above and to the right of the bright star Arcturus. It displays a distinct fuzzy head and a wispy tail, making it easy to spot with binoculars. The comet becomes visible about 90 minutes after sunset and remains in view for around an hour and a half.
Meanwhile, Comet SWAN (C/2025 R2) is also making an appearance in the southwestern sky, near the boundary of the constellations Sagittarius and Serpens. Although it is slightly fainter than Comet Lemmon, it is still observable with binoculars under dark skies. Observers may need to navigate using nearby stars such as Nunki, Sabik, and Altair to locate it.
Having two bright comets visible simultaneously is an unusual occurrence, especially in the absence of bright moonlight. This presents a unique opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts to enjoy both the Orionid meteor shower and the sight of these comets. As the nights grow cooler, clear skies will offer the best chances to experience these celestial wonders.
