The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is one of two showers created by debris from Halley’s Comet. This shower is particularly strong for observers in the Southern Hemisphere. The meteors are known for being fast and leaving glowing trails, with the best viewing in the hours before dawn as the radiant climbs high in the sky.
- Duration: Active April 15–May 27, 2026.
- Predicted Peak: ~03:51 UTC on May 5, 2026.
- Hourly Rate: Up to 50 meteors per hour, particularly for observers in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Radiant: Near the star Eta Aquarii in the constellation Aquarius. The radiant rises after midnight and is highest just before dawn.
- Parent Body: Halley’s Comet.
- Moon Phase: A Last Quarter Moon at 21:10 UTC on May 9, 2026. The moon will be in a bright waning gibbous phase during the peak, which may interfere with viewing fainter meteors.
Radiant Point of the Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower
The radiant of the Eta Aquarids lies in the constellation Aquarius, close to the star Eta Aquarii. While the radiant rises before dawn, meteors can appear anywhere across the sky, often long and fast. In the Southern Hemisphere, the radiant climbs higher, which is why the show is stronger there. Northern Hemisphere viewers should look low in the east just before sunrise for the best chance.
Parent Body of the Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower
The Eta Aquarids are born from Halley’s Comet, the same comet that produces the Orionids in October. Halley’s Comet takes about 76 years to orbit the Sun, and while it won’t return until 2061, Earth crosses its debris stream every year. The tiny fragments left behind enter our atmosphere at incredible speeds (up to 66 kilometers per second), creating brilliant streaks of light.
History of the Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower
The Eta Aquarids were first recorded in the late 19th century, but their connection to Halley’s Comet gave them special importance. The shower is well known for its swift meteors, many leaving persistent trains that glow for several seconds.
In years when Earth passes through denser parts of Halley’s debris, rates can climb higher than usual. The shower is especially treasured in the Southern Hemisphere, where the radiant rises much higher in the sky, making it one of the best annual meteor displays.
How to Observe a Meteor Shower?
The ETA Aquarid Meteor Shower, like most meteor showers, does not require any telescope or binoculars. In fact, wide, unobstructed views of the sky are best. Here are some practical tips to maximize your experience:
- A dark site is essential. Even small towns create skyglow that drowns out faint meteors.
- Give your eyes 30 minutes of darkness to reach full sensitivity.
- Recline and look broadly across the sky rather than focusing on one spot.
- Wear thick winter clothing; frost can ruin the experience fast.
- Hot drinks and snacks turn a long wait into a comfortable outing.
Refer to our Meteor Shower Calendar!
