The Eta Aquarids, which already lit up the sky in May 2023, will be visible again this spring.
This year, the observation conditions are particularly optimal.
Peak activity is expected from May 4 to May 6.
They will bring stars to your eyes. Since April 15, the Eta Aquarids, this meteor shower has been in full activity and could be one of the most powerful of the century. In France, meteors will peak this weekend, between May 4 and 6. The opportunity to discover this breathtaking celestial spectacle.
An unprecedented year
As a reminder, twice a year, the Earth encounters a cloud of meteors coming from the debris of Halley’s comet. Debris which gives rise to two famous “meteor showers”. In October, it’s the Orionids. And in spring, the rain is called Eta Aquarides. Each time, they allow us to see many more shooting stars than on other nights. Except that this year, the show should be even more incredible. A study published in Astronomy & Astrophysics in 2020 predicted particularly intense rain, with higher than usual meteor rates.
As the swarm evolves, the activity in the sky becomes more and more spectacular, reaching 20 to 30 meteors per hour at the peak. This year, this peak of activity is expected from May 4 to May 6, making this weekend the perfect time to look up to the sky. If it is one of the most visible phenomena from the southern hemisphere, observers located up to the 40th parallel north will also be able to enjoy the cosmic show. Especially since this year, the weather conditions will be very favorable. As the specialist magazine points out Sciences and Life, the Moon is waning, the night will be particularly dark. A darkness that will make even the weakest meteors visible.
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Shower of shooting stars: where and how to observe the Eta Aquarids?
To best observe the spectacle, you don’t need binoculars, a spotting scope or a telescope. Just a good dose of patience. You need to find a dark place, far from light pollution, and wait around ten minutes, while your eyes get used to the darkness. And to make sure you’re looking in the right direction, look toward the constellation Aquarius.
