The October 20 meteor shower is the peak of the Orionid meteor shower in 2025. The Orionids are active from September 26 to November 22, with the peak occurring on the night between October 20 and October 21. During this peak, about 20 meteors per hour can be expected under clear, dark skies. The Orionid meteors come from debris left behind by Halley's Comet. In 2025, the peak night coincides closely with the new moon, meaning very dark skies for optimal viewing without moonlight interference. The best viewing times are after midnight until dawn, with the meteors appearing to radiate from the constellation Orion in the southeast (for Northern Hemisphere observers) or northeast (for Southern Hemisphere observers). This meteor shower produces bright, fast meteors that often leave glowing trails or fireballs. In summary:
- Meteor shower: Orionid meteor shower
- Active dates: September 26 to November 22, 2025
- Peak date: Night of October 20–21, 2025
- Expected rate: Around 20 meteors per hour (can reach 50-75 on rare occasions)
- Origin: Debris from Halley's Comet
- Viewing conditions: Best after midnight till dawn on peak night, in dark skies with a new moon
- Radiant: Constellation Orion
This makes the Orionids a highly anticipated meteor shower in October 2025, with excellent viewing conditions expected on October 20–21 due to the moon phase.