The celestial vibe check
October is absolutely packed with astronomical events, and honestly, the vibes are immaculate. NASA has flagged a few key moments this month that you don't want to miss. While some already happened—like the total lunar occultation of Jupiter earlier this week—we still have plenty of stellar action on the horizon.
Meteor shower season
If you missed the Draconids, which peaked last night, don't sweat it. The Orionid meteor shower is coming up on October 21. These aren't just random sparks; they’re actually tiny bits of dust and ice left behind by Halley’s Comet. As Earth crashes through this ancient debris trail, the particles burn up in our atmosphere, giving us those iconic shooting stars.
NASA says you might see 3 to 6 meteors per hour. Pro tip: wait until after 3 a.m. when the moon sets and the constellation Orion is high in the sky. It’s a total mood, just make sure you’re away from city light pollution to really see the show.
The Hunter’s Moon
To wrap up the month, we’re getting a full Hunter’s Moon on October 26 (or the evening of the 25th in North America). Historically, this full moon helped hunters track animals after the harvest when fields were open and the nights were getting darker. As we head into Halloween, the moon will transition into a waning gibbous, giving us that perfect, slightly spooky glow for the end of the month.
Why it matters
You don't need any fancy equipment to enjoy these displays—just your eyes and a bit of patience. Understanding these cycles reminds us that space is constantly putting on a show, and honestly, taking a minute to look up is the ultimate self-care.
