The Orionid meteor shower, caused by debris from Halley's Comet, is active through November 7, peaking between October 21 and 22. Stargazers in both hemispheres can observe the streaks, though the 77 percent full moon will reduce visibility. Meteors radiate from a spot near Betelgeuse in the constellation Orion.
NASA recommends viewing in the hours before dawn after the moon sets. Michelle Nichols of the Adler Planetarium advises against using telescopes or binoculars, recommending the naked eye for the widest field of view. Expect 10 to 20 streaks per hour during peak conditions.
The best viewing occurs between midnight and sunrise under a clear sky with no cloud cover. Observers should allow 30 minutes for their eyes to adjust to the darkness and dress warmly. Planetariums and astronomy clubs can help locate dark sky sites away from light pollution.
While the shower began on October 2, the densest debris occurs during the peak window, offering the highest chance of sightings. The Orionids will remain visible through November 7 as Earth continues through the comet's trail.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing