Stargazers will see 10 to 20 meteors per hour during the peak of the Orionid meteor shower overnight from October 21 to October 22, 2026. A waxing gibbous moon may obscure fainter streaks as Earth passes through debris left by the historic Halley’s Comet.
Moonlight Complicates Viewing of Orionid Meteor Shower
The highest intensity is predicted for the night of October 21 into October 22, though the Orionid meteor shower remains active from September 26 through November 22, 2026. NASA reports peak activity will occur around 2 p.m. on October 21; observers should watch the nights surrounding that date because the shower has a multi-day peak.
A waxing gibbous moon will be visible for much of the night, potentially washing out the sky and making it harder to spot the fainter meteors. Viewing should improve after the moon sets, before dawn,
according to reports from Daily Voice. Astronomers recommend that observers check local moonset times to identify the darkest window before the sun rises.
Halley’s Comet Debris Trails
Earth encounters a trail of ice and rocky dust from Halley’s Comet twice a year—during the Orionids in October and the Eta Aquarids in May. The comet orbits the sun approximately every 76 years and was last seen in 1986; it is not expected to return until 2061.
These particles enter Earth’s atmosphere at approximately 41 miles per second, or 148,000 mph. Due to this high velocity, the meteors often leave glowing trails of debris that can linger for several seconds or even minutes.
Tips for Viewing the Shower
No specialized equipment, such as telescopes or binoculars, is required to view the shower. In North Carolina, organizations like DarkSky International have designated several spots suitable for stargazing, including the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute and the Mayland Earth to Sky Park. Experts suggest finding a location well away from artificial light sources, such as city streetlights.
To prepare for an outing, observers should bring a blanket or a reclining chair.
- Face southeast and look up to take in a wide stretch of the sky.
- Give your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness.
- Avoid looking directly at the constellation Orion, as the meteors are often more visible when viewed 45 to 90 degrees away from the radiant point.
“In less than 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adapt and you will begin to see meteors. Be patient – the show will last until dawn, so you have plenty of time to catch a glimpse.”
NASA, via Cardinal & Pine
Daily Voice notes that the anticipated rate of 10 to 20 meteors per hour is an estimate and individual results may vary based on local conditions. The Orionids are one of two annual meteor showers produced by the debris of Halley’s Comet.
