Saturn reaches opposition this October, placing the planet directly opposite the Sun from Earth's perspective and making it visible all night long. Skywatchers can also observe the Orionid meteor shower, which originates from debris shed by Halley's Comet during its orbit around the Sun. The meteor shower peaks in October, though moonlight may reduce visibility of fainter meteors. Optimal viewing conditions occur before dawn after the Moon sets below the horizon. Additionally, October offers an opportunity to watch the Moon pass in front of the Pleiades star cluster, a naked-eye astronomical event visible from Earth.
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Don't miss: Watch Saturn shine and Halley’s Comet debris streak across the sky
Key facts
- Saturn reaches opposition this October, placing the planet directly opposite the Sun from Earth's perspective and making it visible all night long.
- Skywatchers can also observe the Orionid meteor shower, which originates from debris shed by Halley's Comet during its orbit around the Sun.
- The meteor shower peaks in October, though moonlight may reduce visibility of fainter meteors.
- Optimal viewing conditions occur before dawn after the Moon sets below the horizon.
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