A Celestial Show Begins: Eta Aquarids Peak in May 2025
The night sky is set to dazzle stargazers across Sri Lanka as the Eta Aquarids meteor shower reaches its peak on May 6, 2025. This annual event is known for its swift, glowing meteors that streak across the sky, tracing back to one of the most famous celestial bodies—Comet Halley.
The Astronomy Division of the Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies confirmed that the meteor shower will remain visible until May 27, offering nearly three weeks of cosmic beauty.
What Causes the Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower?
The Eta Aquarids originate from Comet 1P/Halley, which last passed near Earth in 1986 and is expected to return in 2061. As Earth crosses the trail of debris left behind by the comet, tiny particles enter our atmosphere at incredible speeds—around 66 kilometers per second—and burn up, creating brilliant meteors.
Best Time to Watch in Sri Lanka
To catch the best view of the Eta Aquarids:
- 📍 Date: Peak on May 6, 2025
- ⏰ Time: After 3:00 AM, with higher visibility closer to 4:00–5:00 AM
- 🌌 Direction: Look east, near the constellation Aquarius, from which the meteors appear to radiate
On a clear, moonless night in rural areas, you could witness 40 to 85 meteors per hour!
Bonus: Spot Venus and Saturn Too!
Adding to the spectacle, both Venus and Saturn will rise in the constellation Pisces after 4:00 AM, positioned near the radiant point of the meteor shower. Don’t miss this triple treat—shooting stars, Saturn’s glow, and Venus’s brilliance.
Tips for the Best Meteor Viewing Experience
- 🌃 Find a dark location away from city lights.
- 🌑 No equipment needed—naked eye viewing is best.
- 🪑 Bring a reclining chair or mat to lie back comfortably.
- ⏳ Give your eyes 20–30 minutes to adjust to the dark.
- 📷 Optional: Set up a camera for long-exposure night photography.
Will Weather Affect Visibility?
Unfortunately, cloudy weather or thunderstorms—common in early May—could reduce visibility. Check your local forecast in advance and consider visiting a location with clearer skies if conditions in your area are poor.
Why It’s Worth Staying Up Late
Meteor showers like the Eta Aquarids remind us of our connection to the cosmos. Watching particles from Halley’s Comet, a celestial traveler that has circled the Sun for thousands of years, burn across our skies is both humbling and inspiring.
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