Event details

Orionids Meteor Shower

Meteor showers are best watched with wide-open sky and patience, not magnification.

When to look: Window: 2026-10-02 to 2026-11-07 (peak 2026-10-21). After midnight through predawn; exact Moon and weather timing depends on location

Where visible: Both hemispheres where the radiant, Moon timing, clouds, and darkness cooperate

How to watch: No telescope required. Bring a reclining chair, warm layers, and a red light.

What can ruin visibility

Check these before travel

Clouds, bright moonlight, haze, and obstructed views reduce visible meteor counts.

  • Check the peak window
  • Avoid moonlight
  • Use open sky
  • Recheck clouds before travel

Event timing and verification

Authoritative date plus local-condition handoff

Calendar status: Oct 2-Nov 7 | Peak Oct 21

Calendar policy: Past event windows are removed from current and upcoming lists.

Forecast dataset: 2026-09-17

Use this event page for the sky-window baseline, then use the map or tonight forecast for clouds, moonlight, darkness, and the best local viewing window.

Sources: imo.net, amsmeteors.org, science.nasa.gov, science.nasa.gov. Verified 2026-07-26.

Plan for this event

Forecast coverage for this event date is not yet available

Both hemispheres where the radiant, Moon timing, clouds, and darkness cooperate

The displayed forecast is for its own observing night. It does not establish visibility, suitability, or a ranking for Orionids Meteor Shower's listed date.

Give your eyes time and watch wide-open sky

Simple field check

Meteor showers reward patience. Avoid telescopes, use a wide-open horizon, and give your eyes at least 20 minutes to adapt.

Favor the darkest part of the night near the shower peak and avoid bright moonlight.

Recheck local sky conditions before long travel, especially if the event depends on a short viewing window.

Orionids Meteor Shower: Date, Visibility and Viewing Guide | The Star Window