Don’t be mistaken — Halley’s Comet isn’t returning just yet, but its ancient trail of debris is lighting up the night sky. On May 5 and 6, 2025, the Eta Aquariid meteor shower will reach its peak, delivering one of the most dazzling celestial events of the year.

This meteor shower occurs as Earth passes through the dust trail left behind by Halley’s Comet. As the tiny fragments enter our atmosphere at high speed, they burn up and create streaks of light we call meteors.

The Legacy of Halley’s Comet

Officially named 1P/Halley, Halley’s Comet is the most well-known comet in history, visible from Earth approximately every 76 years. It was last seen in 1986 and is expected to return in 2061. Even when the comet itself is far from Earth, its legacy lives on through meteor showers like the Eta Aquariids.

As Halley orbits the Sun, it sheds small particles along its path. When Earth crosses that orbital path, those particles collide with our atmosphere at speeds of up to 66 km/s (about 148,000 mph), creating bright, fast-moving meteors.

What Makes the Eta Aquariids Special?

The Eta Aquariids are known for their swift, glowing meteors. Viewers in the Southern Hemisphere may see up to 50 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. In the Northern Hemisphere, observers can expect around 10–20 meteors per hour.

These meteors are particularly noted for their long-lasting trails, often visible for several seconds. Some meteors, known as "Earthgrazers," skim the atmosphere at shallow angles, creating long, dramatic streaks of light.

When and How to Watch

The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is active from April 15 to May 27, but the peak occurs during the early mornings of May 5 and 6. The best viewing time is between 3:00 AM and 5:00 AM (local time).

Find a dark location away from artificial lights, and let your eyes adjust to the darkness for about 30 minutes. Avoid looking at screens or bright light sources. You don’t need any special equipment — just lie back and look up.

Tips for Photographing the Meteor Shower

If you’d like to capture the Eta Aquariids:

• Use a tripod to stabilize your camera.

• Choose a wide-angle lens to capture more of the sky.

• Set a long exposure to track the meteors’ motion.

• Switch to manual focus, set to infinity for sharp stars.

• Use a remote shutter release to avoid camera shake.

A Global Skywatching Event

While the Eta Aquariids are most visible from the Southern Hemisphere, stargazers around the world can still enjoy the show. In the Northern Hemisphere, meteors will appear lower on the horizon, but with clear skies and patience, the display is still remarkable.

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Don’t Miss This Chance to Connect with the Cosmos

The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is a magical reminder of how ancient cosmic travelers like Halley’s Comet continue to leave their mark. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or simply curious about the night sky, this is a perfect moment to look up — and be amazed.