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Wales Online
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Nisha Mal

The Draconid meteor shower will peak this week - best time and date to see it

October is set to be off to a great start, as a sparkling meteor shower will light up the skies.

The Draconids is one the of less-active meteor showers but it still catches the attention of stargazers.

The meteor shower will be active for around two weeks this month, but it will clearest on some nights more than others.

Here's everything you need to know.

What is it?

(Getty Images)

The Draconid meteor shower is also known as the  Giacobinids. It is one of two meteor showers to grace our skies in October.

Astronomers and star-gazers consider it to be one of the most spectacular meteor showers of the year.

To get the best view look away from the moon, towards the northern half of the sky.

This year, the Draconids meteor shower will peak in the early hours of Thursday, October 8.

Stargazers should also keep an eye out for the Orionids. It usually peaks much later on in the month, around October 21.

Do I need astronomy equipment to see it?

No, the only thing you will need is a clear and comfortable dark spot. You won't have to use binoculars or a telescope to enjoy the night's sky.

The showers will appear in the sky like shooting stars so be sure to make a wish as they pass you by.

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