Get Ready for the Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower!
It’s that time of year again when the night sky puts on a dazzling show: the Eta Aquariid meteor shower is set to peak soon.
From May 5 to 6, those in the southern tropics will be treated to a spectacular display of cosmic dust burning up as it enters the Earth’s atmosphere.
The shower will continue throughout May, but the peak is the best time to witness the most intense meteor activity. All you need is a comfortable spot outside with a clear view of the sky and the determination to wake up early to witness this celestial event.
Meteor showers occur when the Earth passes through the debris left behind by comets or asteroids on their journey around the Sun. These debris particles enter the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a stunning light show visible to the naked eye.
The Eta Aquariids are remnants of Halley’s Comet, which orbits the Sun every 76 years. The radiant of this meteor shower is near the constellation of Aquarius, making it a spectacular sight for those in the Southern Hemisphere, with up to 50 to 60 meteors per hour.
Even those in the Northern Hemisphere may catch a glimpse of this cosmic event, although the meteor count will be lower, around 30 per hour just before dawn.
Despite the Moon being 64 percent full during the peak, it will not hinder meteor visibility as it will set before the radiant rises.
The ideal viewing time for the Eta Aquariid meteor shower varies depending on your location. You can check the specific conditions for your area on Time and Date here.
If you miss the peak, don’t worry! The shower will still be visible for the entire week and will gradually fade until around May 28. You can also download the International Meteor Organization’s 2025 meteor shower calendar to stay informed about upcoming celestial events. Happy stargazing!
