Introduction to the Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower
The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is the current celestial event that is happening now through the end of May.
The meteors will be mainly in the Aquarius constellation which is how it gets its name. The Aquarius constellation has a region known as the “Water Jar” where the “Y” shape of the constellation will be the radial point of the meteors.
Understanding the Meteor Shower
The meteors travel through the outer layer of the atmosphere at 44 miles per second which translates to 158,000 miles per hour! You won’t need a telescope to view this but you will need to be away from the city lights. The meteors are debris left over from Halley’s comet which we were able to see back in the late 80s, 1986 to be exact and it’ll pass by again in 2061.
Origin of the Meteor Shower
The debris is responsible for this meteor shower and the meteor shower that is also visible in October in the Orion constellation. This connection highlights the significant role of Halley’s comet in our solar system’s meteorological events.
Best Time to View the Meteor Shower
The best viewing for the meteors will be after the moon sets around 2 a.m. to 3 a.m. The event will peak on May 5th and 6th but, again, will be ongoing through May 28th. We will be able to see about 10 to 30 meteors per hour which translates to about 1 to 3 every 10 minutes within the hour.
Viewing Tips
The southern hemisphere could see up to 50 meteors per hour. If you miss it, this is an annual event that will come again this time next year! To maximize your viewing experience, find a dark location with minimal light pollution and dress warmly as you will be outside for an extended period.
Conclusion
The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is a spectacular celestial event that offers a glimpse into the remnants of Halley’s comet. With its peak on May 5th and 6th, and ongoing activity through May 28th, there are plenty of opportunities to witness this natural wonder. By following the viewing tips and understanding the origin of the meteor shower, you can enhance your experience and appreciate the beauty of our solar system.
FAQs
- Q: When is the best time to view the Eta Aquariid meteor shower?
- A: The best viewing time is after the moon sets, around 2 a.m. to 3 a.m., peaking on May 5th and 6th.
- Q: Do I need any special equipment to view the meteor shower?
- A: No, you won’t need a telescope, but being away from city lights is recommended for optimal viewing.
- Q: How many meteors can I expect to see per hour?
- A: You can expect to see about 10 to 30 meteors per hour, with the southern hemisphere possibly seeing up to 50 meteors per hour.
- Q: Is this a one-time event?
- A: No, the Eta Aquariid meteor shower is an annual event, occurring every year around the same time.
