- The Eta Aquarid meteor shower peaks tonight, May 5-6.
- It originates from debris left by Halley’s Comet.
- Viewers in the Southern Hemisphere will have the best visibility.
- Expect 10–15 meteors per hour in ideal conditions in the Northern Hemisphere.
- The shower remains active until May 28, though visibility may diminish.
What Is the Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower?
The Eta Aquarid meteor shower is an annual celestial event caused by Earth passing through the debris trail of Halley’s Comet. This comet, which orbits the Sun approximately every 75 years, leaves behind a stream of rocky particles. When Earth crosses this path, these particles enter our atmosphere at high speeds, heating up and burning due to friction with the air. This creates the bright streaks of light commonly referred to as “shooting stars.”
Named after the star Eta Aquarii in the Aquarius constellation, the Eta Aquarids are particularly known for their speed and brilliance. According to NASA meteor expert Bill Cooke, these meteors travel at speeds of about 66 kilometers per second (40.7 miles per second), making them some of the fastest meteors visible from Earth.
When and Where to Watch
The Eta Aquarid meteor shower peaks between the nights of May 5 and May 6, 2023. While the shower has been active since April 19 and will continue until May 28, the peak period offers the best chance to observe the meteors in higher numbers. During this time, viewers in the Southern Hemisphere can expect to see up to 60 meteors per hour under ideal conditions, while those in the Northern Hemisphere may see 10–15 meteors per hour.
The best time to watch is during the early predawn hours, when the sky is darkest, and the radiant point of the shower—the area in the sky where the meteors appear to originate—is highest. For observers in the Northern Hemisphere, the meteors will appear as “Earthgrazers,” which are long, slow-moving meteors that skim the horizon. In contrast, Southern Hemisphere viewers will have a more direct view, as the radiant point is higher in their sky.
How to Maximize Your Viewing Experience
To get the most out of the Eta Aquarid meteor shower, follow these tips:
- Find a dark location: Avoid areas with light pollution, such as city lights or street lamps. Rural locations or designated dark-sky parks are ideal.
- Check the weather: Clear skies are essential for visibility. Cloud cover can obstruct your view.
- Adjust your eyes: Allow your eyes 20–30 minutes to adapt to the dark. Avoid looking at your phone or other bright screens during this time.
- Bring essentials: A comfortable chair, warm clothing, and snacks can make your stargazing experience more enjoyable.
Challenges to Visibility
This year, the moon will be nearly two-thirds full during the peak of the Eta Aquarids, which may reduce visibility, especially for fainter meteors. The moonlight can wash out the night sky, making it harder to spot the shooting stars. However, the predawn hours, when the moon is lower in the sky, offer a better chance to see the meteors.
Additionally, weather conditions play a significant role. Cloudy skies can completely obscure the meteor shower, so it’s important to check local forecasts before heading out to observe.
Why the Eta Aquarids Are Special
The Eta Aquarid meteor shower is one of two annual meteor showers caused by Halley’s Comet, the other being the Orionids in October. Halley’s Comet is one of the most famous comets in history, visible from Earth roughly every 75 years. The last time it was visible was in 1986, and it won’t return until 2061. However, the debris it leaves behind continues to provide a spectacular show for stargazers every year.
What sets the Eta Aquarids apart is their speed and the long-lasting trails they leave behind. These “shooting stars” often create glowing streaks in the sky that linger for several seconds, making them a favorite among astronomy enthusiasts.
What If You Miss the Eta Aquarids?
If you’re unable to catch the Eta Aquarid meteor shower, don’t worry. The next major meteor shower, the Southern Delta Aquarids, will peak in late July. Additionally, the Orionids, also caused by Halley’s Comet, will peak in October, offering another opportunity to witness meteors streaking across the night sky.
For those interested in astronomy, these meteor showers are a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our universe. They provide an opportunity to connect with the cosmos and appreciate the beauty of the night sky.
Source: NASA, Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, American Meteor Society