Catch a "shooting star" (or two) over WNY tonight
Oct 21, 2024
The annual Orionid meteor shower peaked over the weekend, but we're far from finished with the opportunity to see the show. As Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas continues to fade on our western horizon, tonight will offer an opportunity to look southeast to see a few meteors streak across the sky.
TONIGHT: Viewing conditions will be generally favorable across a good chunk of the country to see a few Orionid meteors tonight. You'll be looking toward the southeast. While meteor rates will be limited to a few an hour, the Orionids have treated me well in the past with bright,… pic.twitter.com/MesCjR9734— Eric Snitil (@EricSnitilWx) October 21, 2024
With favorably clear skies, the only detriment to viewing tonight will be the still bright Moon. Even so, you should have trouble see a few, especially after midnight if you're patient. Orionids can occasionally produce very bright fireballs with tails that linger for a few seconds.
Happy hunting!