Our universe might be chock-full of cosmic wonder, but you can observe only a fraction of astronomical phenomena with your naked eye. Meteor showers, natural fireworks that streak brightly across the night sky, are one of them.

The latest event, the Orionids, is well loved by meteor shower aficionados because of the bright, speedy streaks they make near the group of stars known as Orion's Belt. Like the Eta Aquarids meteor shower, which peaked in early May, the Orionids result when Earth passes through debris from Halley's comet.

The shower has been active since Oct. 2 and is forecast to continue through Nov. 7, according to the International Meteor Organization. It peaks Tuesday into Wednesday.

This shower can be seen from both hemispheres. Viewing conditions may be excellent this year

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