Americans are preparing to witness the Eta Aquarid meteor shower light up the skies next week.
The Eta Aquarid meteor shower is an annual celestial event that peaks in early May, known for its fast and bright meteors. It is caused by debris left by Halley’s comet, which Earth passes through during its orbit.
When Can I See the Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower?
According to NASA, the Eta Aquarid meteor shower will peak on the morning of May 6. The shower is set to be most visible in the early hours before dawn, when it can be seen higher in the sky and viewing conditions are generally more favorable.
The shower is better seen from the southern hemisphere, but this doesn’t mean it won’t be viewable from North America.
“The constellation of Aquarius—home to the radiant of the Eta Aquarids—is higher up in the sky in the Southern Hemisphere than it is in the Northern Hemisphere,” NASA said. “The Northern Hemisphere has an hourly rate of only about 10 meteors. This is due to the viewing location of the radiant from different latitudes.”
Best Viewing Conditions
NASA advised finding somewhere “well away from city lights or street lights” to view the phenomenon. Clear skies make for the best conditions, as does finding a spot with a broad view of the sky, free from tall trees, buildings or mountains blocking the horizon.
The moon is set to wax gibbous—meaning more than 50 percent illuminated—which may slightly reduce visibility when compared to a full moon.
“Lie flat on your back with your feet facing east and look up, taking in as much of the sky as possible,” NASA said on its website. “After about 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adapt and you will begin to see meteors. Be patient—the show will last until dawn, so you have plenty of time to catch a glimpse.”
What Is a Meteor Shower?
As Earth orbits the sun, it crosses paths several times a year with debris left behind by passing comets and, occasionally, asteroids. The Eta Aquarid meteor shower originates from the remnants of Halley’s comet. The comet is also responsible for the Orionids, which can be seen in October.
When these high-speed particles enter Earth’s atmosphere, they face resistance from the air, causing them to heat up rapidly and burn. This process sometimes makes the surrounding air glow briefly, creating a fiery trail—what we commonly call a shooting star.
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