The peak of Eta Aquaridus, a meteor shower associated with Halley's Comet, is approaching. Although it's easier to spot these shooting stars in the Southern Hemisphere, it's also worth taking a look at the skies in Poland this year — where astronomers expect this year's rainfall to be the strongest since the beginning of the century.
In April, the Eta Aquarid meteor shower associated with the famous Halley's Comet began activity. This phenomenon is usually visible throughout the month of May, and this year its maximum will be on Sunday, May 5. Meteorites move very quickly, reaching speeds of 66 kilometers per second, and can reach a maximum speed of 50 kilometers per hour.
Highest activity
Eta Aquarids are easy to spot in the Southern Hemisphere – they are one of the most popular autumn flocks in Australia. North of the equator, admiring this phenomenon becomes more difficult because its radiant (the point from which meteors appear to shoot) does not rise until the morning, when the sky begins to brighten. In such conditions, only the brightest meteorites can be seen.
This year, Eta Aquarius' rain could be exceptionally impressive. Scientists modeling meteor activity have indicated that there will likely be more meteors than usual, and this year's showers may turn out to be the strongest in the 21st century. The approaching new moon will also make it easier to admire them.
How to observe Eta Aquarius in the Northern Hemisphere? The best time to see them is just before dawn, when it is not yet bright. Observations should be made away from city lights. Overcast skies may spoil the fun.
Eta Aquarius in the Southern Hemisphere – photo. IllustrativeStock struggle
Conversation, Earthsky.org, PAP, tvnmeteo.pl
Main image source: Stock struggle
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