The Orionid meteor shower is an annual event, just like the more well known Perseid meteor shower that happens every August.
The meteors in Orionid are leftover debris from Halley’s comet, and become visible every year when Earth passes through the comet's debris trail.
Meteor showers are named for the constellation from which the meteors appear to fall. This is actually the point where the earth intersects the debris from the comet’s tail as both orbit the sun.
Orionid meteors appear to fall from above the star Betelgeuse, the bright orange star marking the shoulder of the constellation Orion.
Because it takes several days for the earth to pass through the debris tail of Halley’s comet, Orionid meteors are typically visible for several nights, but the peak viewing will be this upcoming Wednesday 2 hours before dawn.
For best viewing, as with all night sky events, it is best to get away from city lights. If you are able to see all the stars in the Little Dipper constellation, you have found ideal viewing conditions. Lie down on a blanket, or recline in a chair, and enjoy.
Binoculars are not necessary for this light show. If the skies are relatively cloud free, you’ll be fine just looking up.
The next meteor shower that will become visible is Leonids, which will be best viewed November 17th and 18th.
Resources:
University of Texas - Orionid meteor shower
Stargate Media Center
