The wait is over! The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is here, and experts predict a spectacular display this year. With the moon in its new phase, the sky will be dark enough to witness the celestial spectacle in all its glory.
The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is one of the best annual displays, and this year's event is expected to be even more impressive due to the alignment of Jupiter's debris trail. The American Meteor Society predicts a higher rate of visible meteors per hour, making this a must-see event for stargazers.
The meteor shower is active from April 19 to May 28, but the peak viewing time is on May 5 and 6, between 2 and 5 a.m. local time. The meteors will appear to originate from the Aquarius constellation, hence the name Eta Aquariid.
Halley's comet, which last passed Earth in 1986, is the source of the Eta Aquariid meteor shower. As Earth crosses the comet's orbital path, small grains of rock and dust enter our atmosphere, creating a dazzling display of meteors.
This year's event is special because Jupiter's gravitational pull has perturbed the debris trail, increasing the chances of a more spectacular show. The last time this happened was in 2013, when rates were significantly enhanced.
To make the most of this event, find a dark location with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the sky. Allow 20-30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness, and enjoy the celestial display.
The American Meteor Society invites observers to share their experiences and help astronomers determine if the enhancement occurred.
Don't miss this opportunity to witness the Eta Aquariid meteor shower, one of the best annual displays. Mark your calendars for May 5 and 6, and get ready to be dazzled by the celestial spectacle!
Remaining meteor showers in 2024:
- Southern delta Aquariids: July 29-30
- Alpha Capricornids: July 30-31
- Perseids: August 11-12
- Draconids: October 7-8
- Orionids: October 20-21
- Southern Taurids: November 4-5
- Northern Taurids: November 11-12
- Leonids: November 17-18
- Geminids: December 13-14
- Ursids: December 21-22
Full moons in 2024:
- May 23: Flower moon
- June 21: Strawberry moon
- July 21: Buck moon
- August 19: Sturgeon moon
- September 17: Harvest moon
- October 17: Hunter's moon
- November 15: Beaver moon
- December 15: Cold moon
Solar and lunar eclipses in 2024:
- Annular solar eclipse on October 2 over parts of South America
- Partial lunar eclipse on September 17-18 over Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, and South America.
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