Where to watch the 2027 Orionid Meteor Shower near Kelowna
Dust left behind by Halley's Comet burns up as fast shooting stars.
The short answer
Orionid Meteor Shower peaks on Thursday, October 21 near Kelowna. Expect about 3 hours of moon-free darkness, with astronomical twilight ending at 7:42 PM and returning at 5:43 AM. The moon is 55 percent lit, which means moderate interference. At 12:42 AM the radiant sits 26 degrees up in the east. Under ideal dark skies the shower can produce up to 20 meteors an hour. 2 nearby spots have properly dark skies.
| Peak (local) | Thursday, October 21 at 5:24 PM PDT |
|---|---|
| Sunset | 5:55 PM |
| Fully dark | 7:42 PM to 5:43 AM |
| Dark hours | 3.0 h |
| Moon | 55% lit · rises 10:33 PM, sets 2:52 PM |
Questions people ask
What is the best time to watch the Orionid Meteor Shower near Kelowna?
The best time to watch the Orionid Meteor Shower is after fully dark conditions begin at 7:42 PM on October 21. The peak activity will occur around midnight, with the radiant rising in the east at 12:42 AM.
Where should I go to watch the meteor shower?
For optimal viewing, consider heading to dark locations like the Big White Road Pullouts or Okanagan Lake Provincial Park. These spots offer darker skies, which enhance your chances of seeing more meteors.
What is the moon situation during the meteor shower?
The moon will be 55 percent lit during the Orionid Meteor Shower, which means some interference with visibility. However, you can enjoy about three hours of moon-free darkness before the moon rises at 10:33 PM.
Which direction should I look to see the meteors?
You should look towards the east to see the meteors, as the radiant point will be located there at an altitude of 26 degrees. This is where the meteors will appear to originate from.
What should I bring or expect when watching the meteor shower?
Bring a comfortable blanket or reclining chair to lie back and enjoy the show. Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop, and be prepared for a moderate number of meteors, around 20 per hour under ideal conditions.
