Orionids Meteor Shower Birmingham 2022: When is it, what is it and how to see it

The meteor shower will be visible this week
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The Orionids Meteor Shower should reach its peak this week, and the wonderful event will be visible from Birmingham. The shower is one of the most reliable in terms of being able to spot in our skies, and is an eye catching event which should not be missed.

The Orionids Meteor Shower originates from Halley’s Comet. The radiant of the shower lies in the constellation of Orion. While Halley’s Comet follows its path around our Sun, a trail of cometary debris is left behind, and as the Earth passes through this debris trail, bits of comet collide with our atmosphere producing fiery streaks across the sky.

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According to The Royal Observatory, under optimal viewing conditions, observers might be able to see around 25 meteors per hour. Viewing conditions will be good this year with relatively little moonlight, so keep your fingers crossed for good weather.

The shower usually has its peak during October 21 and 22 but could also be visible for several days after this. It is expected that the shower will be active until November 7- so if you happen to miss out tonight or tomorrow- you’ve got plenty of time to catch it.

The Royal Observatory gives the best advice on how to increase your chances of seeing the meteor shower. According to them you should: “Head to a dark sky location and aim your gaze about 45 degrees away from the constellation Orion. Remember to wrap up warm, especially if you’re going to be outside in the early hours of the morning.”

NASA says your eyes should begin to adapt to the darkness and you should be able to see the meteors on what will hopefully be a clear few nights in Birmingham.

Met Office forecast for the West Midlands

Today:

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A grey and murky start for many, with outbreaks of rain at times. However, becoming drier and brighter from the west later on. Generally light and variable winds. Maximum temperature 17 °C.

Tonight:

Dry with largely clear spells, though dreary, cloudy conditions may return for a time in the north through the evening. Winds picking up before showers arrive through the early hours. Minimum temperature 9 °C.

The Dracoid meteor shower will be most visible on October 8 and 9.The Dracoid meteor shower will be most visible on October 8 and 9.
The Dracoid meteor shower will be most visible on October 8 and 9.

Friday:

Showers continue throughout the day, in-between sunny spells. These may be heavy with a risk of thunder. Fairly light southeasterly winds, though breezy within showers. Maximum temperature 18 °C.

Likely drier and less windy over the weekend than of late. The odd shower is expected with sunshine in-between, albeit hazy at times. Winds strengthening with showers Monday. Remaining mild.

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