Eta Aquarid meteor shower: Best time and date to watch 50 shooting stars per hour
celestial spectacle this weekend as the Eta Aquarid meteor shower graces the night sky with its dazzling display of shooting stars. Expected to reach its peak on Saturday night and early Sunday, stargazers can witness up to an impressive 50 shooting stars per hour… The American Meteor Society predicts increased meteor rates this year, possibly attributed to the gravitational influence of Jupiter.
Phenomenon of «Shooting Stars»
As per a report by Live Science, the mesmerizing phenomenon of «shooting stars» occurs as meteoroids, small particles, collide with Earth's atmosphere, igniting and vaporizing upon entry. This luminous energy manifests as streaks of light across the night sky. The swift velocity of the Eta Aquarid meteors, traveling at approximately 40.7 miles per second (65.5 kilometers per second), promises a captivating spectacle, with an average of 10 to 30 meteors visible each hour during the peak, as per a report by Space.com.
Ideal Viewing Conditions
Optimal viewing conditions are essential for experiencing the full splendor of the meteor shower. Fortunately, a waning crescent moon on May 5 ensures minimal moonlight interference during the peak hours.
NASA's Meteoroid Environment Office recommends stepping outside at 2:00 a.m. local time for prime meteor shower viewing, with meteor rates progressively increasing until dawn.
To maximize visibility, enthusiasts are advised to seek locations with minimal light pollution and clear skies.
