Orionids light up the October sky
Halley's Comet leaves a trail of debris for the night spectacle
The peak of the Orionid meteor shower occurs in the early hours of October 21st / 22nd, as Earth passes through the trail of dust left by Halley's Comet. The phenomenon has sparked the interest of those who follow the night sky.
What are the Orionids
The Orionids are meteors originating from fragments of Halley's Comet. When these debris enter Earth's atmosphere, they burn up and produce luminous streaks that resemble shooting stars.
When to observe
The shower's peak occurs in the early hours before dawn, between October 21st and 22nd. On this date, the best time to observe is between 2 AM and 4 AM, when the sky is darkest and lunar radiation is minimal.
Moon's Influence
In October, the Moon reaches advanced waxing phases, with about 70% illumination. This natural brightness can outshine fainter meteors, making it essential to seek out locations with minimal light pollution.
Where to look
The radiant point is in the direction of the Orion constellation, where the three stars forming the belt are located. Looking east, slightly above the horizon, allows observers to catch most meteors traveling from southeast to northwest.
Observation Tips
- Get away from city lights: rural areas or parks far from artificial illumination increase visibility.
- Wear warm clothes: observation occurs in the early hours of the morning, when temperatures drop.
- Bring a reclining chair: lying down makes it easier to observe the entire sky without having to move your head.
- Avoid binoculars: meteors are fast and best seen with the naked eye.
Other October Phenomena
In addition to the Orionids, October brings the opposition of Saturn, which can be observed all night in the constellation Pisces, to the east. The waning Moon also positions itself near Mars in the early hours of the morning, offering an additional spectacle for sky enthusiasts.
With information from Globo, Metrópoles.
Source: Globo, Metrópoles