On May 5 and 6, 2025, the Eta Aquariid meteor shower will reach its peak, offering one of the most spectacular celestial displays of the year. This annual event is caused by Earth passing through the debris trail left by Halley’s Comet, resulting in meteors streaking across the sky at incredible speeds.
Halley’s Comet, officially designated 1P/Halley, is perhaps the most famous of all comets, visible from Earth approximately every 76 years. Its last appearance was in 1986, and it’s expected to return in 2061. However, even when the comet itself is far from Earth, its legacy continues through meteor showers like the Eta Aquariids.
As Halley’s Comet travels through the solar system, it sheds dust and small particles along its orbital path. When Earth crosses this path, these tiny fragments enter our atmosphere at speeds up to 66 km/s (about 148,000 mph), burning up and creating the bright streaks we observe as meteors.
What to Expect During the Eta Aquariids
The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is known for its fast-moving meteors and glowing trails. Observers in the Southern Hemisphere can expect to see up to 50 meteors per hour under optimal conditions, while those in the Northern Hemisphere may see between 10 to 20 meteors per hour.
These meteors are particularly notable for their speed and the persistent trains they often leave behind, which can last for several seconds. Some meteors, known as “Earthgrazers,” skim the Earth’s atmosphere at a shallow angle, producing long, bright trails that are especially impressive.
