If, like me, you've always wanted to watch a meteor shower - then you're in for a treat!

The Orionids Meteor Shower will be visible in Australia between 21-22 October 2014. For those that plan to wake up in the wee hours of the morning to experience this, we have a few observing tips for you:

  • Avoid city lights where possible - if you're in the city area, head to a park or somewhere with wide open space without buildings obstructing your view. 
     
  • Bring a friend or two or three or ...
     
  • Rug up! Wear thick clothing or bring a blanket with you. Trust us, it's going to be cold at 3am in the morning, regardless of which city you're in.
     
  • Pack a hot drink in your thermos or flask.
     
  • Bring a chair, stool or a rug to sit on while you're waiting for the meteor shower.
     
  • Let your eyes adjust to the dark - if you're watching from home, make sure you don't switch on any bright lights while waiting for the meteor shower. It will take approximately 5 minutes before your eyes will fully adjust to the darkness.
     
  • Observe it as is or bring a pair of binoculars - the Orionids are visible to the naked eye but in the event clouds or night mist get in the way, your binoculars will help save the day.
     
  • Relax and be patient - Meteor watching requires patience but can be extremely rewarding. 

Happy sighting!
 

*Estimated peak viewing times: 

  • Perth - 2:00 - 4:30 am 
  • Brisbane - 1:30 - 4:00 am 
  • Adelaide - 3:00 - 5:00 am 
  • Canberra - 3:30 - 5:30 am 
  • Darwin - 1:30 - 5:00 am
  • Hobart - 4:00 - 5:00 am 
  • Sydney - 3:00 - 5:00 am 
  • Melbourne - 4:00 - 5:30 am 

Disclaimer: Estimated peak viewing times are based on the fluxtimator's calculations on recent numerical models as well as each city's latitude/longitude coordinates.