The Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower Expected To Dazzle - Peaks on May 5, 2019
InstantWeather
(Graphic credit: Jake Cuthbert)
The Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower can be viewed from late April to early May, with a viewing peak period on May 5, 2019. Although it is best viewed in the Southern Hemisphere, it can also be viewed in the Northern Hemisphere, just with less meteors seen per hour. At around 10-30 meteors per hour, this event is still nothing to scoff at, even in the North!
There will be multiple chances available for ultimate viewing. Most recommended is early morning, before the sun is just below the horizon. This means getting up while it is still dark out. You might also want to take into account the time it takes to adjust your eyes to the sky. Other available times include late evening (after midnight) where you will likely experience the longest streaks in the sky.
Meteor showers are flashes of dust grains, burning up the atmosphere. These meteors are in bunches because they’re actually left behind from comets (which is why predicting when they occur is pretty accurate). These flashes of dust can move at around 30 to 70 km per second!
In particular, the Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower is considered “leftovers” from Halley’s Comet. However, it has veered from the comet as the dust flies in different directions, causing their dates to slowly spread apart. The most exciting part? Anyone can stop and view it, so long as they catch it at the right time and place.
So, where are the best places to view this meteor shower? You will want to find a location that is far away from artificial light, and with a dark, deep sky. This will ensure success in seeing the meteors at their brightest potential. You may also want to try a semi-clear southern horizon, as a cluttered horizon may obstruct your view of the meteors. In the sky, try to keep your eyes East, focusing your eyes near the constellation Aquarius, where the Eta Aquarid appear to emerge frequently.
A meteor shower is a sight to behold, truly worthy of a spot on anyone’s bucket list. Getting lucky in your sights is one thing - but knowing how to find them is half the battle.
IW Guest Contributor (Jay. W)
References:
https://www.space.com/36502-eta-aquarid-meteor-shower-guide.html
http://www.skyandtelescope.com/astronomy-news/best-bet-meteor-showers-for-2018/
https://www.astrocal.co.uk/eta-aquarids-meteor-shower/ https://www.amsmeteors.org/meteor-showers/meteor-shower-calendar/