NEW YORK — The Eta Aquarid meteor shower is set to light up the sky soon, thanks to debris from Halley’s comet. However, this year, a bright moon may make it harder to see the meteors.
The shower peaks Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. While viewers in the Southern Hemisphere can usually spot around 50 meteors per hour, that number may drop by half due to the moon’s brightness. Meanwhile, people in the Northern Hemisphere can expect to see fewer than 10 meteors an hour.
“For us in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s not going to be as impressive,” says Teri Gee, manager of the Barlow Planetarium in Wisconsin. “The farther south you are, the better the view.” This highlights how geographical location plays a key role in experiencing meteor showers.
Meteor showers occur when Earth moves through trails of debris left by comets or asteroids. When these tiny bits slam into our atmosphere at high speeds, they create what we call shooting stars.
Did you know that these showers are more frequent during certain times of the year? Most of them are linked to comets, and the Eta Aquarids come from one of the most famous: Halley’s Comet. It passes Earth every 76 years, with its next visit expected in 2061.
For the best chance to see the meteors, head outside just before dawn. Find an area away from city lights for a clearer view. Since the waning gibbous moon will be 84% full, look for a spot that blocks its light.
Bring along some blankets or lawn chairs, and try to avoid looking at your phone so your eyes can adjust to the darkness. Aim your gaze toward the constellation Aquarius, near the bright star Eta Aquarii.
“You’re looking for bright streaks that might catch your eye for just a split second,” explains astrophysicist Nico Adams from SSP International, an organization that focuses on STEM education.
This experience can be a bit magical. As Gee puts it, “It almost feels like you’re discovering it yourself.” Viewing the meteor shower can ignite a sense of wonder, connecting you to the vastness of the universe.
Recent surveys have shown that nearly 70% of people are interested in stargazing. Engaging with natural phenomena like meteor showers can foster community and curiosity. So, gather some friends or family, and enjoy the night sky together. After all, it’s more than just a show; it’s a chance to connect with each other and the cosmos.
For more information on upcoming celestial events, you can check out NASA’s official website for astronomical updates and resources.
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