**Comets and Meteor Showers to Grace October Sky: How to Watch**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 22, 2025, 05:22 PM*
October is shaping up to be a spectacular month for skywatchers, with two comets and the Orionid meteor shower lighting up the night skies.
The first comet, C/2025 R2 (SWAN), was discovered in mid-September by NASA-ESA’s Solar and Heliospheric Observatory. This long-period comet, with an orbital cycle of approximately 22,554 years, is expected to pass within 0.27 astronomical units (AU) of Earth during October. SWAN boasts an impressive tail that stretches about the width of five full Moons. Skywatchers can look forward to spotting this comet with the naked eye under dark, clear skies. It will be visible between October 20 and 23, coinciding perfectly with the new Moon on October 21, which means minimal moonlight and optimal viewing conditions.
To catch a glimpse of Comet SWAN, observers should avoid areas with light pollution and allow their eyes to adjust to the darkness for the best experience.
Adding to the excitement, another comet, C/2025 A6 (Lemmon), discovered earlier this year by the Mount Lemmon Survey in Arizona, will also be visible this month. Lemmon is set to pass approximately 0.60 AU from Earth on October 21. Under ideal conditions, it may brighten to magnitude 4, offering a rare chance to see two naked-eye comets simultaneously.
In tandem with these comet sightings, the Orionid meteor shower will reach its peak around October 22 and 23. Originating from debris left by Halley’s Comet, the Orionids can produce up to 20 meteors per hour under perfect observing conditions. Thanks to the new Moon on October 21, moonlight interference will be minimal, making this an excellent opportunity to enjoy both the meteor shower and the visiting comets.
For the best viewing experience, find a dark location away from city lights, bring warm clothing, and give your eyes at least 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness. Don’t miss this celestial showcase lighting up October’s night sky!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/two-comets-orionids-to-light-up-october-night-skies/story