JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Hopefully, the rain will clear Friday in time for viewing the Draconid meteor shower. It’s the first meteor shower in autumn and it has the shortest viewing window.
Compared to other meteor showers, the Draconids will primarily fall on Oct. 8. The peak will only result in about 10 meteors per hour and so, although it is possible to see a few on other nights, the rates will be very low.
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At least this shower will not require staying up late. Unlike many meteor showers, more Draconids are likely to be observed early in the evening rather than after midnight.
Unfortunately, rain and clouds will be around in the early evening before slowly clearing after 9 p.m. Otherwise the conditions would be good since a waxing crescent moon sets before dark.
If you are willing to give it a try, look to the north and northwest and locate the Big Dipper low on the horizon. Follow the path of stars up to the northwest of the Little Dipper. This is the Draco radiant where most fliers will be seen.
You may also be able to spot other meteors through the month from the Orionids. The planet is passing through debris from Halley’s comet which results in occasional meteors.
The peak of the Orionids is expected on Oct. 21, but it may not be a good showing this year due to the near-full Hunter’s Moon casting bright light across the night sky.