The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is set to take place as the Earth speeds towards a trail of debris left by Halley's comet. The meteor shower will peak on the evening of May 6, with up to 10 to 30 meteors being visible per hour. This celestial event coincides with a rare lunar eclipse known as a deep penumbral eclipse, which will cast Earth's shadow on the full 'Flower Moon' tomorrow.
Halley's Comet orbits the sun in a long ellipse and only passes through the inner solar system every 76 years or so. During this year's meteor shower, visibility may be higher than usual due to Jupiter currently being close to Earth in its orbit. According to astronomers, Jupiter may provide many of the meteoroids an extra gravitational nudge towards our planet.
The meteors can be viewed from five continents and will be most visible in the Southern Hemisphere when they streak across the constellation Aquarius during their peak. People are advised that weather conditions and patience play crucial roles in observing these events.
"The Etaquariids are not to be missed due to the possibility of a significant outburst," says NASA astronomy expert Bill Cooke despite potential excessive moonlight interfering with viewing conditions for some observers.
In addition, stargazers around Rhode Island should expect an outburst of approximately 50 meteors per hour during this year's Eta Aquariids display. These fast-moving meteors can travel at speeds up to 42 miles per hour and produce fireballs with glowing trains.
For those planning on watching this spectacular show in person, it is recommended that you dress warmly, fill a thermos with coffee or another warm beverage, bring blankets along as well as reclining lawn chairs if possible for optimal comfort while enjoying one of nature’s finest light displays.