Starting this Thursday, look to the sky!
Between Oct. 20 and 22, Earth will pass through the debris field left in the wake of Halley's comet (last encounter: 1986) giving a little extra sparkle to Orion's belt.
There's no need for a 'scope, either: the Orionids meteor shower is visible to even the most casual observer. Binoculars are recommended, however, for the short of sight and the eager viewer.
Watch for Orion's ascent in the southeastern quarter from 11 p.m. and its apex at 5 a.m. with peak activity before dawn on the 22nd. The moon will be in its last quarter, waning to a waif crescent, and--given a clear sky--makes for an ideal viewing.
