1. Overview of Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower
2. Understanding Eta Aquariids
3. Causes of the Meteor Shower
4. Optimal Viewing Times
5. Halley’s Comet Return
Are you ready to see bits of Halley’s Comet streaking through the sky? It hasn’t been seen in the inner solar system since 1986, but the tail of the famed comet—formally known as the Eta Aquariids meteor shower—has left a trail of dust and debris in space that is currently causing shooting stars in the night sky.
1. What is the Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower?
The Eta Aquariids meteor shower is an annual event that began on April 19 and will continue until May 28. However, it peaks on Thursday, making just before dawn the ideal time for viewing, according to the American Meteor Society. Nevertheless, you can also enjoy a similar experience before midnight on Wednesday and Friday.
This meteor shower typically produces about 60 shooting stars as seen from the southern hemisphere, while those in the northern hemisphere may observe between 10 and 30 meteors. Consequently, this difference is due to the appearance of meteors coming from the constellation of Aquarius, which is more visible below the equator at this time of year.
2. What Causes the Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower?
Halley’s Comet is believed to be the source of the Eta Aquariids. Measuring about nine miles wide, it enters the inner solar system roughly every 76 years, making it the only comet that can be observed with the naked eye twice within a single human lifetime.
Shooting stars become visible during the Eta Aquariids meteor shower as Earth moves through the comet’s stream of particles. These particles strike our atmosphere at 40.7 miles per hour, heating up and releasing energy, which results in the bright streaks we see in the night sky.
3. When is the Best Time to See the Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower?
The best time to catch a glimpse of shooting stars from the Eta Aquariids meteor shower is during the pre-dawn hours of Thursday, coinciding with peak activity when the sky is darkest.
Stargazers do not need to focus on any specific area of the night sky, as shooting stars can appear anywhere. However, they will be most prominent under a dark rural sky, away from light pollution, enhancing the viewing experience.
4. When Will Halley’s Comet Return to the Night Sky?
It’s a long wait until Halley’s Comet makes its next appearance in the inner solar system, but it should be well worth it. In 2061, it will loop around the sun, coming much closer to Earth (though still at a safe distance) than during its last visit. Consequently, it is projected to be a bright object visible to the naked eye in the night sky.
