Mon Oct 20 17:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Orionid Meteor Shower to Light Up Skies This Week

Global – Skywatchers around the world are in for a treat this week as the annual Orionid meteor shower reaches its peak. Experts predict a dazzling display of bright streaks across the night sky, with the potential for the occasional spectacular fireball.

The Orionids are expected to peak around 8 p.m. ET on Monday, but Robert Lunsford of the American Meteor Society assures that the show will likely continue for several nights. “Don’t despair if you get clouded out on that night,” Lunsford advises. “Head on out the next night, next couple nights even, and you’ll see almost the same activity.”

Adding to the viewing conditions, this year’s peak coincides with a new moon, meaning minimal moonlight interference. Under clear skies, viewers can anticipate seeing 10 to 20 meteors per hour. The Orionids are known for their speed, creating fleeting flashes of light with some brighter meteors leaving behind persistent smoke trails.

Adding to the celestial excitement, the slower-moving Southern Taurid meteor shower is also currently active, with its peak expected November 4-5. Lunsford described the phenomenon as a “battle” between the two showers, with the Orionids originating from the constellation Orion and the Taurids emanating from Taurus.

For optimal viewing, Lunsford recommends looking towards the southern sky around 10 p.m. on Monday night or 4 to 5 a.m. on Tuesday morning in your local time.

The Orionid meteor shower is a result of Earth passing through the debris field left behind by the famous Comet Halley. “Halley’s comet actually crosses Earth’s orbit twice,” Lunsford explained, creating the Orionids in October and the Eta Aquariid shower in early May. Comet Halley was last visible from Earth in 1986 and is expected to return in 2061.

(CNN contributed to this report.)

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