Mumbai, October 19: Skygazers all across the world need to mark their calendars as 'shooting stars' will be originating from the renowned Halley's Comet this weekend (October 20-October 21). They will appear to come from the Orion constellation, close above the famed Orion Belt of three brilliant stars, thus the name Orionid meteor shower. The Orionid meteor shower, named after the Comet IP/Halley, better known as Halley's Comet, peaks in October over the Northern Hemisphere.

The Orionid meteor shower 2023 is projected to peak on October 22, perhaps providing the most spectacular display of meteors. The Orionids are well-known for their speed and brilliance, making them popular among astronomers. Meteor Seen in Turkey Video: Meteorite Lights Up Turkey’s Sky Spectacularly Green.

The Orionids are caused by Earth passing through the dust and particles left behind by Halley's Comet, according to NASA. The US space agency considers the Orionids to be the most beautiful showers of the year. Because it leaves light trails in its wake, the meteor shower is sometimes mistaken for shooting stars. The Orionids can also produce fireballs, which are brilliant, visible meteors.

Is Orionid Meteor Shower Visible Through Naked  Eye?

Yes, the Orionid meteor shower can be seen with the naked eye. As the earth passes through the leftover debris, comet dust vaporises, generating colourful streaks of light. According to NASA, they might look like luminous "trains" trailing a meteor and can continue for a few seconds to many minutes.

Orionid Meteor Shower Will be Visible in India?

Skywatchers in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres can see the Orionids. Hence, the Orionid meteor shower 2023 is also expected to be visible in several parts of India, depending upon the weather conditions. Meteor Seen in Colorado Videos: Huge Fireball Lights Up Sky in US State, Residents Share Clips of the Spectacle Caught On Doorbell and Security Cameras (Watch).

How to Watch the Meteor Shower?

The best approach to the Orionids is to think of it as a stargazing session. So, brace yourselves for the spectacular Orionid meteor shower, which will ascend high into the southeastern sky around midnight.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 21, 2023 01:58 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).