Viewing Halley’s Comet Fragments During the Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower

Halley’s Comet makes its appearance near Earth every 75 years. Nevertheless, the remnants of this comet give rise to two significant meteor showers annually: the Eta Aquarids.

During this meteor shower, the night sky lights up as Earth travels through the paths left by various famous comets, according to Shauna Edson of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

NASA’s Bill Cook describes the Eta Aquarids as “very fast meteors.”

On the peak night, which falls on Tuesday morning, we anticipate witnessing 10-15 meteors per hour under optimal viewing conditions, Cook noted.

However, with the moon approximately two-thirds full, visibility may be diminished.

The viewing period will extend until May 28th. For more information about the Eta Aquarids and other meteor showers, check out this meteor shower guide.

What is a Meteor Shower?

As Earth orbits the Sun, it encounters bits left behind by comets and sometimes asteroids several times a year. The Eta Aquarids originate from fragments of Halley’s Comet.

When these fast-moving space rocks enter Earth’s atmosphere, they experience friction with the air, causing them to heat up and eventually incinerate.

This process can create a brief glow in the surrounding air, leaving a luminous tail that marks the path of a “shooting star.”

You don’t need any special gear to view the meteor showers that light up the sky each year, just find a dark spot away from city lights.

How to View the Meteor Shower

The optimal time for observing meteor showers is early when the moon is positioned low in the sky.

The primary challenges to clear visibility are bright moonlight and artificial lights. A cloudless night with a faint moon provides the best conditions.

Remember to keep looking up. If you haven’t been distracted by your phone, your eyes will be well-adapted to spot a shooting star.

When Will the Next Meteor Shower Be?

The next major meteor shower, the South Delta Aquarids, will peak in late July.