Mon Oct 20 17:20:00 UTC 2025: News Article:

Look Up! Orionid Meteor Shower Peaks Tonight Under Dark Skies

Stargazers are in for a treat! The Orionid meteor shower, one of autumn’s most reliable celestial displays, reaches its peak tonight, October 20th, and into the early hours of tomorrow, October 21st, 2025.

The Orionids occur annually between October 2nd and November 7th, and this year, conditions are exceptionally favorable. The peak activity is expected to occur around 13:00 BST (12:00 UT) on October 21st, making both the nights of October 20/21 and 21/22 prime viewing opportunities.

Adding to the spectacle, the Moon will be in its “new” phase, ensuring a dark sky free from lunar interference. This will maximize the number of meteors visible to the naked eye.

The Orionids are caused by Earth passing through the debris field left behind by the famous Halley’s Comet. As tiny particles from the comet enter our atmosphere, they burn up, creating the streaks of light we know as meteors. Each meteor you see is literally a piece of Halley’s Comet!

The meteors appear to radiate from a point near the constellation Orion, hence the shower’s name. Under ideal conditions, observers can expect to see up to 20 meteors per hour (Zenithal Hourly Rate – ZHR), though this number is a representative figure, indicating the number of meteors you would see under perfect conditions.

Tips for Viewing:

  • Find a dark location away from city lights.
  • Allow your eyes at least 30-60 minutes to adjust to the darkness.
  • Look towards the constellation Orion, but meteors can appear anywhere in the sky.
  • Be patient! Meteor showers are a waiting game.

Did you manage to catch a glimpse of an Orionid? Share your experience by emailing contactus@skyatnightmagazine.com.

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