A moonless night is about to turn into a meteor showcase, with the Orionids set to deliver one of fall’s best sky shows.

Ideal viewing arrives from late Monday, Oct. 20, through the predawn hours of Tuesday, Oct. 21, thanks to a new moon that leaves the sky dark. But there will be other opportunities to see it. The shower is active now and runs into Friday, Nov. 7.

The Orionids come from Earth plowing through dust shed by Halley’s Comet. In a typical year, you can expect around 20 meteors an hour at the peak, with the chance for brief flurries. Recent displays have been low to average, but the lack of moonlight greatly boosts your odds.

The Orionids are expected to top out with ideal viewing this week. But there will be other opportunities to see it. The shower is active now and runs in

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