All about the Orionids 2025: How to observe the October meteor shower
Every October, the sky presents us with one of the most beautiful spectacles of the year: the Orionid meteor shower. In 2025, this phenomenon will reach its peak between October 22 and 24, offering a perfect opportunity for lovers of astronomical observation and astrophotography.
What are the Orionids?
The Orionids are a meteor shower formed by tiny fragments of Halley's Comet, one of the most famous in the Solar System.
Every time the Earth crosses the trail of dust and ice left by the comet in its orbit, these particles enter our atmosphere at high speed (about 66 km per second), generating the characteristic flashes of light or "shooting stars" that illuminate the sky.
They are called the Orionids because their radiant point—the place in the sky from which they appear to originate—is located in the constellation of Orion, easily recognizable by its belt of three aligned stars: Alnitak, Alnilam, and Mintaka.
When to observe the Orionids
🌠 Activity period: October 2 to November 12, 2025.
🔭 Peak intensity: nights of October 22-24, with an average of 5 to 6 meteors per hour under optimal conditions.
🌕 Favorable lunar phase: This year the Moon will be in its last quarter, so its brightness will not interfere too much with observation during the hours before dawn.
Where to watch and at what time
Although the Orionids appear to originate in Orion, they can be seen crossing any part of the sky.
The best time to observe them is from midnight until dawn, when the constellation is highest above the horizon.
We recommend looking east or southeast, over a wide area of the sky, without focusing your gaze on a single point.
Tips to enjoy the show
1. Find a dark place away from light pollution.
The more rural and elevated the environment, the better visibility you will have.
2. Let your eyes adjust to the darkness.
Avoid using flashlights or bright screens for at least 15 minutes.
3. Wear warm clothing and blankets.
October nights can be cold, especially in mountain areas.
4. Be patient.
Meteor showers are irregular natural phenomena; several minutes can pass between one meteor and the next.
5. Do not use a telescope or binoculars.
Naked eye observation is recommended, as the field of view of an instrument is too narrow.
Astrophotography of the Orionids
If you want to capture the Orionids with your smart camera or telescope:
- Use a wide-angle (14–35 mm) SLR or mirrorless camera.
- Set a long exposure (15–30 s), ISO between 800 and 1600 and focus to infinity.
- Take multiple shots in a row to increase your chances of capturing a meteor.
If you have a Seestar S50 or Dwarf 3, you can use continuous exposure mode with the camera pointed at Orion and then process your shots.
The origin of the Orionids: Halley's Comet
Halley's Comet is responsible for the Orionids and also the Eta Aquariids, visible in May. Its orbital period is 76 years, so it will visit us again in 2061.
Meanwhile, Earth crosses its trail of cosmic dust twice a year, giving rise to these two meteor showers.
A reminder for the observer
The 2025 Orionids will arrive after a start to the month marked by the DANA "Alice" and several episodes of atmospheric instability in the eastern Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands. Before planning your session, check the AEMET weather forecast and active warnings.
If the weather isn't good, you can always set up your equipment, check collimation, and practice image processing while you wait for a clear night.
In summary:
- Maximum: October 22-24
- Origin: Halley's Comet
- Activity: from October 2 to November 12
- Speed: 66 km/s
- Best time: early morning
- Best direction: east (constellation Orion)
The Orionids are an invitation to look at the sky calmly.
Every flash reminds us that even the dust of a comet can paint light in the night.
Want to prepare your observation equipment? At Astro Telescopes, you'll find astronomical binoculars, smart telescopes , and photography accessories ideal for enjoying this phenomenon from anywhere.