The Orionid meteor shower peaks this week, bringing dazzling shooting stars streaking across the sky. But will Mother Nature cooperate, or will clouds steal the show?

The annual Orionid meteor shower peaks Wednesday night, October 21, into Thursday morning, October 22, giving skywatchers a chance to catch up to 20 shooting stars per hour. Known for their speed and bright, glowing trails, the Orionids are one of fall's most anticipated celestial events.

The Orionids are actually tiny pieces of debris left behind by the famous Halley's Comet. As Earth passes through this trail of dust and rock, the particles burn up in our atmosphere, creating brilliant streaks of light. The meteors appear to originate near the constellation Orion, but they can flash across almost any part of the sky.

Want the best view? Check our astro card and head outside between 3 a.m. and dawn, after the bright moon has set and the sky is darker. Find a spot away from city lights, let your eyes adjust, and look up! No telescope is needed, but clear skies are a must. Check the WeatherRadar to see whether clouds could spoil the show in your area.