Over 30 meteor showers are visible every year from the Earth’s surface. One is the Eta Aquarids meteor shower, which will be visible in May. So, mark your calendars and bring your gear to witness the astonishing Eta Aquarids. Additionally, it doesn’t matter where you live, as people from both hemispheres will be able to watch the phenomenon.
Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower
Meteor showers are debris from comets or giant asteroids entering the Earth’s atmosphere. Before reaching the surface, the meteors start to burn out due to the drag. As a result, one can see a small light or firework for a fraction of a second. Lastly, different meteor showers are observable throughout the year based on directions, frequency, and origin.
Origins of Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower
The source of Eta Aquarids is Halley’s comet—it will appear somewhere in 2061. When the rocks from a comet enter the orbit, they form a shooting star. The tail of the particles is visible for a few seconds before they become vapours. Plenty of such rocks enter the atmosphere, so multiple shooting stars are observed in the sky.
This year, the Eta Aquarids meteor shower will be visible from May 4 to mid-month. And the adequate time to watch these is between midnight and dawn.
Direction of the Constellation
The Eta Aquarids come from the direction of the constellation Aquarius, visible in the Southern Hemisphere. Plus, even people from the Northern Hemisphere can get a glimpse early in the morning.
To locate the constellation Aquarius, download any star-tracking software on your phone. It will help you in your astrophotography or viewing experience.
Additional Details About The Phenomenon
The Eta Aquarids meteor shower will have around 10-30 meteors per hour. However, this is a probable number and can vary in real-time. It’s best to showcase patience as it is a rare phenomenon and demands some focus.
Few Tips to Enjoy Eta Aquarids
If you’re a novice and want to enjoy the event, the following tips will significantly help you. First, make sure to travel away from light pollution. Second, make your eyes comfortable in the dark. Finally, be patient in your position by avoiding any sort of distraction or light coming from your devices.
- Choose a precise place and sky
- Install apps
- Use gear
- Be patient
Conclusion
The Eta Aquarids meteor shower, visible in May, is a rare phenomenon from Halley’s comet. It occurs from the constellation Aquarius and is visible in both the Southern and Northern hemispheres.
The shower typically has 10-30 meteors per hour but can vary in real-time. To enjoy the event, avoid light pollution, make your eyes comfortable, be patient, choose a clear place, install apps, use gear, and be patient.
Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)
Where can I see the Eta Aquarid meteor shower?
The Eta Aquarids are primarily visible in the southern hemisphere, but people in the northern hemisphere can also view them in the early mornings.
Are Eta Aquarids visible in India?
Yes, but one must set their alarm for an early morning.
What is the best time to see the Eta Aquarids meteor shower?
Anywhere between midnight and dawn is the right time to watch the meteor shower.
Are meteor showers rare?
There are over 30 meteor showers which are observable from Earth.
