The Draconid meteor shower is set to peak tonight, October 9, as the Earth travels through a cloud of debris left behind by a comet. Stargazers could see up to 10 meteors per hour, according to the Royal Museums Greenwich.
What is the Draconid meteor shower?
The meteor shower is sometimes known as the Giacobinids, named after Michel Giacobini, who discovered the comet 21 P/Giacobini-Zinner from which the meteors come. Although the Draconids – thought to be named so as they point to the Draco constellation – aren't as active as other meteor showers, they can still put on a gorgeous display.
How to see the Draconids tonight
The Draconid meteor shower is active between October 6 and October 10, but it reaches its peak today, October 9. Unlike many other meteor showers, which are best seen in the early hours of the day, the Draconids are best seen in the evening, usually after nightfall. From around 7pm tonight, you should be able to catch the Draconid meteors racing across the sky – and you won't have to stay up too late to view them.
However, the weather may impact visibility. The Met Office has predicted rain for today, but suggests that showers will eventually make way for 'sunshine and blustery showers'. Their weather forecast map shows that most of the south of England will have clear skies, while the southwest and parts of Scotland face light showers from 7pm. Rain will reduce visibility and make it difficult to see the meteor shower, but with light rainfall forecast, you may still catch a glimpse.
Tips for viewing and other meteor showers
Royal Museums Greenwich suggests you find a spot where skies are dark and encourages you to make sure there are 'no direct sources of light in your eyes' to adapt to local conditions and 'ensure fainter meteors become visible'.
If you miss the Draconids, there are several other meteor showers happening throughout the last few months of the year. These include the Orionids (active October 2 to November 7), Taurids (active September 10 to November 20 for Southern and October 20 to December 10 for Northern), Leonids (active November 6 to 30), Geminids (active December 4 to 20) and Ursids (active December 17 to 26). There are also several full moons to look forward to, including the Hunter's Moon on October 26, Beaver Moon on November 24 and Cold Moon on December 24.
