As the weekend approaches, Canadians are in for a dazzling spectacle of lights in the cosmos. Come Sunday evening, precisely around 8:05 p.m. EDT, the skies will play host to the peak of the captivating Orionid meteor shower. The celestial show, which commenced on September 26, is anticipated to continue its enchanting waltz in the firmament until November 22. However, this weekend provides an optimal window for those wishing to witness the fleeting bursts of light.
Those residing in the northern hemisphere, particularly stargazing enthusiasts, are advised that the prime opportunity to witness this shower is in the early hours of Monday morning, as the dawn breaks over the horizon. As night turns to day, an astounding 23 meteors are expected to streak across the sky each hour.
Annually, in the heart of October, the Orionids reach their peak, and their show is unanimously lauded as one of the most exquisite annual celestial events. Characterized by their brilliance and remarkable speed, Orionid meteors put on a cosmic ballet that’s hard to look away from. Hurtling at a staggering speed of 166,000 kilometers per hour into our planet’s atmosphere, these meteors truly make for a phenomenal sight.
Those in Canada keen to experience this spectacle are strongly urged to find a vantage point free from the glare of city lights, under a moonless, dark sky.
As we marvel at the stunning light show, one might wonder about the origin of these meteors. The Orionids trace their lineage back to the trail of dust particles shed by Halley’s Comet, a cosmic wanderer that graces our skies every 76 years. Although we last witnessed it in 1986, its subsequent passage around the Earth left a celestial trail of ice and rock debris. When these grains come into contact with the Earth’s atmosphere, we’re treated to spectacular displays like the Orionids in October and the Eta Aquarids in May.
In preparation for this cosmic event, stargazers should acclimatize their eyes to the night sky for approximately 30 minutes prior to the meteor shower. Bring along a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair, find a position lying flat with your feet facing southeast (if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere), and take in the full expanse of the sky above, getting ready for a celestial spectacle you won’t forget.
