Orionid meteor shower: Belfast could get clear spells tonight

The Orionid meteor shower could be visible from Belfast tonight, with clear spells forecast across Northern Ireland around the shower’s annual peak.

The Royal Observatory Greenwich lists 21 October as the 2026 maximum, with viewing recommended between midnight and dawn.

The shower has a broad peak, giving observers opportunities over several nights around that date.

Orionid meteor shower viewing conditions

The Met Office’s Northern Ireland forecast, updated at 4am on Wednesday 21 October, predicts mostly dry conditions tonight with clear intervals.

However, mist and fog patches could develop. Local cloud conditions will determine whether observers get an unobstructed view.

Moonlight will also make fainter meteors harder to spot.

Where to watch

Choose a safe, open location away from street lighting, wrap up warmly and allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness.

No telescope or binoculars are needed. Meteors can appear across the sky, so a wide view is useful.

The Orionids are associated with debris left by Halley’s Comet. The shower remains active into early November, although activity varies from night to night.

External/source: Royal Observatory Greenwich’s Orionid guide. Royal Observatory Greenwich

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