The ETA Aquarids meteor shower, one of the most anticipated annual celestial events, is expected to reach its peak this week, illuminating the sky with dazzling streaks of light. Following closely after the Lyrid meteor shower, the Aquarids (sometimes spelled Aquardiis) offer some of the most spectacular astral displays of the year, particularly visible from the Southern Hemisphere. Fortunately, this event will be observable worldwide, providing stargazers with a final opportunity to witness a meteor shower until the next anticipated occurrence in July.
Originating from remnants left behind by the renowned Halley’s Comet, the Aquarids meteors are distinctive for the long glowing trails they leave in their path as they traverse the sky, rather than resembling flashing fireballs. Here is what you need to know about the ETA Aquarids meteor shower and how to observe it in 2025.
What is the ETA Aquarids meteor shower?
According to NASA, most meteor showers occur when Earth passes through debris left by comets. These fragmented meteoritic materials descend to Earth and burn up in the atmosphere, creating what we commonly refer to as “shooting stars.” This phenomenon happens daily, with an estimated 48.5 tons of material falling on Earth each day. During an average night, attentive observers may witness a few shooting stars per hour. A meteor shower is characterized by a significant increase in the number of meteors entering Earth’s atmosphere. These showers are typically named after the nearest star or constellation to where the meteors appear in the sky.
The debris responsible for the ETA Aquarids meteors originates from Halley’s Comet, a celestial occurrence visible from Earth approximately every 76 years (the next sighting is expected in 2061). Upon its return to the inner solar system, Halley’s Comet leaves behind rocky dust that eventually leads to the creation of the ETA Aquarids meteor shower each May and the Orionids every October.
When is the ETA Aquarids meteor shower at its peak?
The Aquarids, which first became active on April 19, are set to peak between May 5 and May 6 as Earth traverses the densest part of Halley’s cosmic debris, as reported by the American Meteor Society. Although the meteors may become less bright and dazzling post-peak, sky gazers can still enjoy the spectacle until around May 28.
What is the best time to view the Aquarids meteors?
Optimal viewing of the Aquarids, like all meteor showers, occurs during the dark hours between midnight and dawn. For detailed information on when and where to witness this phenomenon, Time and Date provides valuable insights.
How to observe the Aquarids
The Aquarids should be observable globally, provided that the view is not obstructed by clouds or a bright moon. However, the best visibility is from the Southern Hemisphere, where the meteors appear to radiate from the Aquarius constellation
