The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is set to dazzle the night sky on May 5 and May 6, peaking at its best viewing time around midnight. However, for optimal stargazing, it’s recommended to plan your observation during the week prior to the peak, when the moon is still relatively small and won’t interfere with the view.
As one of the most famous meteor showers, Eta Aquariid has a notable parent: Comet Halley, which orbits Earth every 75 years. The shower occurs when our planet passes through the comet’s discarded debris, producing tiny fragments known as meteoroids that burn up in our atmosphere at speeds of over 200,000 kilometers per hour.
To witness this spectacle, head to locations with wide-open skies and clear views, such as Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Uganda, Kenya, or Indonesia. In North America, visibility will be limited, but still offer a chance to see between 10 to 30 meteors per hour.
Astronomer Phil Plait explains that meteor showers originate from comets, which release rock particles into space when they approach the sun. When Earth’s orbit intersects these debris trails, the fragments burn up as meteors, creating the spectacular display we witness during the shower.
This year’s Eta Aquariid meteor shower promises to be a breathtaking experience, especially for those with access to prime viewing locations. Grab a blanket, relax, and enjoy the show with friends or family – it’s an event that never gets old!
Source: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/how-to-see-the-eta-aquariid-meteor-shower-2025