The Orionids,
up close.

Why the Orionids happen

Every October, Earth passes through a trail of small particles shed by Halley's Comet. When pieces of that material enter our atmosphere at high speed, they create brief, bright streaks called meteors. The shower appears to radiate from near the constellation Orion, though individual meteors can appear across much of the sky.

When should you watch?

For this year, prioritize the pre-dawn hours of October 22 after the Moon sets, if conditions permit. The best clock time varies by location, so check a trusted moonset forecast before leaving. NASA notes moonset around 3 a.m. in its general October guidance; that is not a guaranteed moonset time for your specific observing spot.

Do not expect a steady stream of meteors or promise a specific count. The often-quoted 10–20 per hour describes favorable dark-sky conditions in ordinary years, not what each visitor will see. Clouds and bright skies may produce no visible meteors.

Five steps for a better viewing session

1. Check local weather and moonset. Look for cloud cover, safe travel conditions, and the Moon's time below your horizon.
2. Choose a safe, permitted location. Avoid trespassing, isolated hazards, shoreline hazards, and unlit roadways.
3. Give yourself time. Allow your eyes to adapt to the dark; avoid checking a bright phone repeatedly.
4. Use a wide field of view. A reclining chair and warm layers can be more useful than a telescope.
5. Watch patiently. Look broadly across darker parts of the sky, not only at Orion. Sightings cannot be guaranteed.