The Eta Aquariid meteor shower, created by debris from Halley’s Comet, will peak on May 5 and 6, 2025, offering one of the year’s best night-sky shows. Although “the actual comet itself isn’t returning just yet,” its ancient dust trail will light up the heavens as Earth passes through it.

Halley’s Comet, last seen in 1986 and expected back in 2061, leaves behind particles that enter Earth’s atmosphere at speeds up to 66 km/s (148,000 mph), producing bright streaks of light.

During the Eta Aquariids, observers in the Southern Hemisphere may see up to 50 meteors per hour, while those in the Northern Hemisphere could spot 10–20 per hour. Some meteors, known as “Earthgrazers,” skim the atmosphere and create long, glowing trails.

The best viewing time is between 3:00 and 5:00 a.m., away from city lights. No telescope is needed—just lie back and let your eyes adjust. For photographers, NASA suggests using a tripod, wide-angle lens, long exposure, and manual focus.

Though best seen in the south, the Eta Aquariids are “a global phenomenon” connecting people everywhere to Halley’s celestial legacy. 🌠