Orionid Meteor Shower Tonight
via i.space.com
Tonight is the peak of Orionid Meteor Shower, in which the Earth passes through the debris of Halley's Comet. Viewing hours are said to be greatest pre-dawn Sunday, but Saturday night shouldn't disappoint. From NASA:
"The Orionid meteor shower isn't the strongest, but it is one of the most beautiful showers of the year," notes Cooke.
The reason is its setting: The shower is framed by some of the brightest stars and planets in the heavens. Constellations such as Taurus, Gemini and Orion provide a glittering backdrop for the display. But that’s not all. This year, Venus and Jupiter have moved into position with Sirius, the Dog Star, to form a bright triangle in the eastern pre-dawn sky. On the morning of Oct 21st, blazing pieces of Halley’s Comet will cut straight through the heart of this celestial triad.
It's been years since I've seen a meteor shower, either due to ignorance or poor weather conditions, so tonight I think I'll wake myself up and have a look.
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