Washington, D.C. – Stargazers are in for a treat this weekend as the Eta Aquarid meteor shower, debris from Halley’s comet, reaches its peak. With only a waning crescent moon illuminating the sky, observers should have a clear view of the celestial display.
Taking place annually in early May, the Eta Aquarids are expected to reach peak activity early Sunday, with an estimated 10 to 30 meteors visible per hour in the Northern Hemisphere. Skywatchers in the Southern Hemisphere can anticipate even better viewing conditions. This meteor shower is projected to last until May 27.
Meteor showers, originating from comet debris, provide a dazzling spectacle for observers. The Eta Aquarids, connected to Halley’s comet, bring forth glowing streaks of light as rocks from space encounter Earth’s atmosphere, creating the mesmerizing effect known as shooting stars.
To catch a glimpse of this cosmic phenomenon, observers are advised to seek out dark skies away from city lights. The best time to spot shooting stars is usually in the midnight to predawn hours, under cloudless nights with minimal moonlight.
The upcoming large meteor shower to look forward to is the Southern Delta Aquarid, set to reach its peak in late July. For a comprehensive list of meteor showers, their peak viewing days, and moonlight conditions, the American Meteor Society offers valuable updates for avid stargazers.
Don’t miss the chance to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Eta Aquarid meteor shower this weekend, a celestial event that promises to captivate observers with its dazzling display of shooting stars.