Meteor showers are not exclusive to summer nightmares: this phenomenon also occurs in autumn. In the month of October we will have Orionidswhich were named in honor Orionthe constellation that rules them.
And do you remember? Cplastered Halley, which last passed the Earth in 1986? These shooting stars are actually fragments broken off from this comet, known for its periodic orbit of 76 years. This is because every year or so we cross the ring of debris left behind by Halley, and when these come into contact with Earth’s atmosphere… A spectacle ensues.
SOURCE: Brian Donovan. VIA: Shutterstock
Halley’s Comet photographed during its last appearance in 1986
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE ORIONIDS?
Peak visibility is planned for October 21 and 22although this year it will be slightly lower than usual will coincide with the phase of the first quarter of the Moon (ideally it would be a darker sky with a new moon). Therefore, it is recommended to look for shooting stars in the opposite direction to that of this satellite.
Meteor showers: stars don’t fall from the sky
As for the best time to observe them, it will vary depending on your location. In Spain, the best time to see them will be on October 22 from 02:00 in the morning; but in Argentina from 02:30. The key is when Orion begins its ascent.
Likewise, the National Astronomical Observatory’s calendar states that this year the Orionids will be visible until November 7th (although they are more difficult to find outside of peak visibility).
The constellation Orion rises in the forest. SOURCE: Birth_Kulik. VIA: iStock
WHAT ARE THE RECOMMENDATIONS TO WATCH?
Because Orion is the one who controls this meteor shower, The best place in the sky to look for them is near this constellation. Other more general tips are:
1. Come twenty minutes or half an hour early. Your eyes need to get used to the dark to be able to distinguish meteors clearly.
2. The darker the place, the better. Stay away from city centers and areas with light pollution.
3. It is also important that you use a location where there are no obstacles such as trees and buildings.
4. Remember what we told you about the moon, look away from it and focus on the darker areas of the sky.
Last but not least, get ready for speed! After the Leonids (typical speed of 71 km/s), the Orionids (66 km/s) are the fastest flyers.
