Jeddah: The skies over Saudi Arabia and the Arab region will witness a remarkable astronomical event as the Orionid meteor shower reaches its peak, expected to be clearly visible in the pre-dawn hours when its radiant point is high in the sky toward the southeastern horizon.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Jeddah Astronomy Society Director Majed Abu Zahra noted that conditions this year are ideal for observation, as the moon will set before dawn, allowing for dark skies that make it easier to spot the meteors, which are typically active from October 2 to November 7 each year.
He noted that the Orionids are considered a moderate meteor shower, with around 20 meteors visible per hour from locations away from city lights. Their source is Halley's Comet, which will approach the sun again in July 2061, and some meteors may leave bright trails visible to the naked eye.
Abu Zahra added that observing the event does not require telescopes or binoculars, only a dark location with a wide horizon to enjoy this celestial display, offering astronomy enthusiasts and families a unique opportunity to witness a spectacular scene in the Kingdom's night sky.