October Skywatching: Supermoon and Meteor Showers

This October, skywatchers are in for a treat with a supermoon and two meteor showers lighting up the night sky. On October 6, the supermoon will appear larger and brighter due to its proximity to Earth, known as perigee. This coincides with 'International Observe the Moon Night' on October 4, encouraging global moon-gazing events.

From October 6-10, the Draconid meteor shower will be visible, originating from the comet 21P Giacobini-Zinner. Although the bright supermoon might obscure some meteors, viewers can expect up to 10 meteors per hour, peaking around October 8.

The Orionid meteor shower, peaking on October 21, promises a more spectacular display with up to 20 meteors per hour. This shower results from Earth passing through debris left by Halley’s Comet. The lack of moonlight during the new moon on October 21 will provide optimal viewing conditions. Observers should look to the southeast in the northern hemisphere and northeast in the southern hemisphere for the best view.

For more information on skywatching events and NASA's missions, visit science.nasa.gov.