Remembering Halley's Comet, By Way Of The Orionid Meteor Shower.

There are a number of sky events that are observable to the naked eye, that can be observed throughout the year. And because of the hustle and bustle that we all find ourselves in from day to day, I wanted to share one of these last minute sky events with my readers before I forgot. This astromomical event of mention will be occurring during the nights of October 20th, through the 22nd, and I apologize for the last minute reminder. During these nights, ground based observers will be able to view the Orionid Meteor Shower. And if your somewhat of an Astronomy buff and night owl like I am, than you will not want to miss this event. The main reason for wanting to observe this particular meteor shower, is because it will give us a visual snapshot of remembering Halley's comet. And some of us may be mulling over in our heads right now-why would this particular sky event help me to remember this famous comet?

To simply answer that question, is that every meteor shower, whether it be the delta Quadrinids, Lyrids, or even the famous perseids, are associated with a particular comet. The Orionid meteor shower is one shower that is associated with Halleys comet. During the early morning hours where upwards of fifteen to twenty meteors per hour can be seen. The meteors that yo can observe are actually passing through a debris trail. A debris trail that was left as the result of comet halley; passing through the earth's orbit. And in the wee hours of the morning of October 21st and the 22nd respectively, this is exactly what will be happening, as you witness these so called shooting stars emanate from the darkness of space.

They will not be just emanating from anywhere, but will also be associated with the constellation Orion, better known to many as Orion the Hunter. Orion usually earmarks the beginning of the winter season. And it usually rises high in the southeastern sky, at around midnight or after. If you look upwards after midnight into the southeast and locate Orion, just look a bit over to the left of the constellation. This point in the sky is called the radiant and where you will be able to see the majority of these meteors.

Orion the hunter is a relatively easy constellation to pick out in the night time sky. Three bright stars, marking the belt of Orion identify its belt. And above and to the left of orion is a very bright blue-white supergiant star, called Rigel. From Rigel go in a downward direction and below the belt of the hunter. Here you will come across a fairly bright reddish star, that twinkles ever so slightly, just as Rigel does. This is the supergiant red star called Beteleguese. It's easy to remember this star just by saying Beetle Juice a few times in a row. Catchy isn't it? Once you have located the constellation which is also near my favorite constellation, Taurus the bull, you will just have to sit back, relax and enjoy the show.

A dark spot in your back yard, or at a park, or beach; will further make observing this astronomical event all that more enjoyable. I am not weather forecaster, but have been told by a local observatory near me, that the skies for viewing will be clear. The moon is now two days past full as it rises during the wee hours of the morning. Even though this may hamper this years Orionid meteor shower somewhat, it will by no means be a washout. You still should be able to get a good glimpse at least ten to fifteen of the brighter meteors, that is associated with this years orionid display.

If your not such an early riser, try to think of it as getting in on a piece of Halley's comet. Which most of us here on earth may have never viewed during past years. And as much as I hate to admit this, many of us may never be able to see again. Given the fact that it passes through our neighborhood every eighty-six years or so. However if you do get a chance to get outside this weekend during the early morning hours. You will be able to tell friends and family that you were able to witness a little piece of history. This is one shooting star event, that your wishes may come true upon-hey, you never know, so enjoy this years show!