Orionid Meteor Shower Set to Peak Wednesday Night Into Thursday
The Orionid meteor shower, originating from Halley's comet debris, is set to peak this week, with optimal viewing expected Wednesday night into Thursday morning. While up to 20 meteors per hour may be visible in ideal conditions, a bright moon…
Biloxi Gulfport, MS, October 21, 2026 —
The Orionid meteor shower is expected to reach its peak this week, with the best viewing period forecast for Wednesday night into Thursday morning. The shower originates from debris associated with Halley’s comet.
Under ideal conditions, viewers may see up to 20 meteors per hour. That figure is a possibility rather than a guarantee: a bright moon is expected to reduce visibility until late at night, and actual viewing conditions may vary. The available information does not specify a location-based forecast.
The meteors are visible after midnight. For a better chance of spotting them, viewers are advised to choose a place away from light pollution and give their eyes time to adjust to the darkness. The guidance does not identify a particular viewing location or provide a more precise time for the peak.
The expected moonlight may make the earlier part of the viewing window less favorable, while darker conditions later at night could improve visibility. Even then, the estimate of up to 20 meteors per hour applies only under ideal conditions; observers should not assume that rate will be visible everywhere.
The forecast points to Wednesday night into Thursday morning as the main opportunity to watch, with viewing after midnight and away from bright surroundings recommended. No additional details about local weather or visibility were provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on www.wxxv25.com, see more information here.
