Call it clickbait if you will—but no, Halley’s Comet isn’t making its grand return just yet. Still, its ancient debris is putting on quite a show in our skies!
On May 5 and 6, 2025, the Eta Aquariid meteor shower will hit its peak, delivering one of the most dazzling celestial spectacles of the year. This annual meteor display happens as Earth drifts through a trail of cosmic debris left behind by the legendary Halley’s Comet.
The Enduring Legacy of Halley’s Comet
Designated 1P/Halley, this iconic comet is perhaps the most well-known of them all, visible from Earth roughly every 76 years. It last passed by in 1986 and isn’t due back until 2061. But even when it’s out of sight, Halley’s cosmic footprint lives on through meteor showers like the Eta Aquariids.
As Halley’s Comet journeys around the Sun, it sheds dust and tiny fragments along its orbital path. When Earth crosses this path each spring, these remnants blaze into our atmosphere at speeds of up to 66 km/s (around 148,000 mph), creating brilliant meteor streaks in the night sky.
What Makes the Eta Aquariids Special
Known for their fast and glowing meteors, the Eta Aquariids are a treat for stargazers. In the Southern Hemisphere, skywatchers can catch up to 50 meteors an hour under ideal conditions. Northern Hemisphere viewers may see between 10 and 20 per hour.
These meteors often leave behind glowing trails that linger for several seconds. Occasionally, you might spot “Earthgrazers”—meteors that skim the atmosphere at shallow angles, producing long, dramatic streaks.
When and Where to Watch
Although the Eta Aquariids are active from April 15 to May 27, the peak viewing time is during the early morning hours of May 5 and 6—ideally between 3:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. local time.
To get the best view, head to a dark area away from city lights with an unobstructed view of the sky. Give your eyes 30 minutes to adjust to the dark, and avoid any bright lights or screens. No telescope needed—just lie back and enjoy the show.
Want to Capture the Magic? Try These Photo Tips:
- Use a tripod to keep your camera steady.
- Go wide with a wide-angle lens to cover more of the sky.
- Use long exposures to capture meteors’ movement.
- Set manual focus to infinity for crisp stars.
- Use a remote shutter or timer to reduce camera shake.
A Worldwide Display
While the Southern Hemisphere offers the best views, people across the globe can still witness the Eta Aquariids. In the Northern Hemisphere, the meteors will be lower in the sky—but with patience and clear skies, the show is still worth watching.
🌠 Mark Your Calendar
The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is a rare chance to witness remnants of Halley’s Comet lighting up our atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just love a good night under the stars, don’t miss this cosmic spectacle.
🔗 Sources used:
- Space.com – “The Eta Aquarid meteor shower peaks May 6. Here’s what to expect from the ‘crumbs’ of Halley’s Comet” Space
- EarthSky – “2025 Eta Aquariid meteor shower: All you need to know” EarthSky
- Smithsonian Magazine – “How to Watch the Peak of the Spectacular Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower” Smithsonian Magazine
- NASA – “What’s Up: May 2025 Skywatching Tips from NASA” NASA Science
- Time – “You Won’t Want to Miss the Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower. Here’s How and When You Can See It” Time
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