The Orionid meteor shower is forecast to peak across the UK into Thursday, offering stargazers a chance to observe increased meteor activity.
Clear skies will be central to visibility: organisers and meteor observers note that, under favourable weather conditions, people in the UK could spot as many as 10 to 20 meteors per hour during the peak. Cloud cover and other local conditions will, however, determine what is actually visible from any given location.
Light pollution and the observer's surroundings will also influence sightings. Darker rural areas away from city lights typically provide the best conditions for catching fleeting meteors, while urban locations may see far fewer visible streaks.
Those planning to watch the shower are advised to check local weather forecasts and prepare for extended periods outdoors if they want the best chance of seeing activity. Naked-eye observation is generally the most effective way to view meteors, as they move quickly across the sky.