Orionid meteor shower active ahead of October peak

The Orionid meteor shower is active until 7 November and is expected to peak overnight on 21–22 October. BBC Weather says that, under ideal conditions, around 10 to 20 meteors an hour could be visible at the peak. [1]

For anyone looking on Friday evening, 2 October, BBC Weather forecasts the best UK viewing prospects in southern and eastern England, where longer clear spells are likely. Cloud and rain may make sightings harder in Wales, the Midlands and northern England, while Scotland and Northern Ireland could have clear intervals between showers. [1]

The Orionids appear each year as Earth passes through debris left by Halley’s Comet. They seem to radiate from the constellation Orion, but meteors can appear anywhere across the sky. BBC Weather recommends finding a dark place with a wide view, allowing 15 to 20 minutes for your eyes to adjust, and watching without binoculars or a telescope. [1]