The Draconid meteor shower is set to light up UK skies this weekend, peaking on Sunday evening after nightfall. The celestial event, also known as the Giacobinids, will be active from Friday through Tuesday, with the best viewing expected on Sunday and Monday, according to the University of Warwick and the Royal Observatory Greenwich.
Originating from the remnants of comet 21P/Giacobini-Zinner, which orbits the sun every six-and-a-half years, the Draconids produce up to 10 shooting stars per hour at their peak. Unlike many meteor showers best seen in the early hours, the Draconids are visible after nightfall, as the radiant point in the Draco constellation reaches its highest point in the evening sky.
The streaks of light are caused by particles as small as grains of sand burning up in Earth's atmosphere. To maximise your chances of seeing the spectacle, experts recommend finding a location with minimal light pollution, such as the countryside or higher ground away from streetlights. A dark, cloud-free night with an unobstructed horizon is ideal.
Dr Minjae Kim, a research fellow from the University of Warwick, noted that the moon will be in its Last Quarter phase during the peak, providing favourable conditions for observation. The Draconids are one of two meteor showers in October; the Orionids will peak later in the month, on the night of October 21-22.
