Gazing at the sky and photographing events like the full moon is a pastime that attracts many curious observers. This month, there’s yet another reason to seek out an unobstructed view of the sky in Porto: the Draconids meteor shower, which is active from October 6 through 10.
A modest meteor shower, but with little interference from moonlight
Contrary to the forecasts released last year, which predicted a surge in activity of about 150 meteors per hour, a more modest display is expected this year . According to the specialized website Star Walk, the Draconids are expected to have an estimated rate of about five meteors per hour under ideal viewing conditions.
When is the peak of the Draconids?
Although the Draconids’ active period runs from October 6 to 10, the peak is expected on the night of October 8–9, benefiting from the proximity of the New Moon—scheduled for October 10—with little interference from moonlight.
It’s worth looking up at the sky at dusk on October 8, as the Draconids are particularly easy to observe in the early evening. No special equipment is needed: just observe with the naked eye, have a little patience, and find a spot away from light pollution!
+ The 2026 Full Moon Calendar: lists the dates of the year’s most significant astronomical events
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