Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower
The annual Eta Aquarid meteor shower is expected to peak early Tuesday morning with meteors flying into Earth's atmosphere at speeds of 40.7 miles per second, originating from Halley's Comet debris. Northern Hemisphere may see 10 to 20 meteors per hour, while those in the Southern Hemisphere may see a more active sky. The moon will set by 3 a.m. on May 6, providing ideal dark skies for meteor spotting.
Key Points
- Meteor shower peaks early Tuesday morning
- Meteors originate from Halley's Comet debris
- Northern Hemisphere may see 10 to 20 meteors per hour
- Southern Hemisphere may see more active sky
- Moon will set by 3 a.m. on May 6
Pros
- Opportunity to witness a natural astronomical event
- 50 meteors per hour at the peak of the shower
- Different viewing experiences for Northern and Southern Hemispheres