The Eta Aquarid meteor shower, composed of debris from Halley's Comet, may be partially obscured this year by a bright moon. Skywatchers hoping to catch a glimpse of the celestial display might find the moonlight outshining the fainter meteors.
What to Expect from the Eta Aquarids
The Eta Aquarid meteor shower occurs annually in early May as Earth passes through the trail of dust and particles left behind by Halley's Comet. This year, the shower peaks around May 5-6, but the moon will be nearly full, reducing visibility for all but the brightest meteors.
According to NASA, the Eta Aquarids are known for their speed, traveling at about 148,000 miles per hour (66 km/s) into Earth's atmosphere. They often leave persistent trains—glowing trails of ionized gas that can last for several seconds.
Best Viewing Tips
To maximize your chances of seeing meteors, experts recommend the following:
- Find a dark location away from city lights.
- Look toward the constellation Aquarius, which rises in the eastern sky before dawn.
- The best viewing time is between 2 a.m. and dawn local time.
- Allow at least 20 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
While the bright moon will wash out fainter meteors, the brightest ones—often called fireballs—may still be visible. Patience is key, as the shower can produce up to 30 meteors per hour under ideal conditions.
Halley's Comet Legacy
Halley's Comet, which orbits the Sun every 76 years, is responsible for two annual meteor showers: the Eta Aquarids in May and the Orionids in October. The comet last passed through the inner solar system in 1986 and will not return until 2061. However, its debris continues to create these spectacular displays.
For those who miss the peak, the Eta Aquarids remain active until late May, though rates decline significantly after the peak night.
