Image Source: Iatock

The Grand Orionids

Get ready stargazers! A meteor shower described by NASA as "one of the most beautiful showers" is set to grace our skies.

Image Source: Iatock

Zooming Meteors

Orionids stand out for their brilliance and swiftness. Travelling at a staggering 148,000 mph, they create a mesmerizing spectacle.

Image Source: Iatock

Glowing Debris Trails

Due to their high speed, many Orionids leave glowing debris trains in their wake. It's a dazzling display of space litter.

Image Source: Iatock

Starry Backdrop

The meteors are silhouetted by some of the brightest stars, providing a magnificent celestial canvas for this shower.

Image Source: Iatock

Mark Your Calendars

Starting on Sept. 26, the Orionid meteor shower will stretch until Nov. 22, peaking on Oct. 21.

Image Source: Iatock

Peak Viewing

On the peak night, with a dark sky, expect to see around 23 meteors per hour.

Image Source: Iatock

Where to Watch

From both hemispheres, watch post-midnight, away from lights. Give your eyes 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness.

Image Source: Iatock

Viewing Tips

In the northern hemisphere, lie down facing southeast. In the south? Point those feet northeast. But always keep an eye out across the vast sky.

Image Source: Iatock

Locating the Orionids

Spot the constellation Orion and locate Betelgeuse. Just north of it is the radiant. For stunning meteors, don’t stare directly at Orion!

Image Source: Iatock

Duration of the Show

The celestial show will continue until dawn. So, there's plenty of time to catch a glimpse.

Image Source: Iatock

After the Orionids

The Leonid meteor shower follows, starting on Nov. 3 and peaking on Nov. 18.

Image Source: Iatock

The Science Behind the Magic

Meteors are remnants of comets and asteroids. When Earth sails through these trails, these fragments light up our skies.

Image Source: Iatock

Legacy of Halley's Comet

The Orionids originate from Halley's Comet, which last passed by in 1986 and will return in 2061.

Image Source: Iatock

Best Times to Watch

The peak is predicted between the nights of Oct. 20 and 22. With only a 37% moon on Friday, viewing conditions are ideal.

Image Source: Iatock

More Celestial Shows

If clouds obscure your Orionids view, await the Southern Taurids on Nov. 5 or the Northern Taurids on Nov. 11. The cosmos never ceases to amaze!