The meteors radiate from Aquarius, but you can see activity across the sky, so a wide, unobstructed view is ideal.

The Eta Aquarid meteor shower peaks overnight on May 5–6, 2026, with the southern hemisphere potentially seeing up to 50 meteors per hour and the northern hemisphere 10–30 per hour as Earth passes through Halley's debris.

Meteors streak across the sky at about 40 miles per second, leaving glowing trails that linger briefly.

The best viewing time is predawn when the radiant is highest above the eastern horizon; aim for a dark location with a wide field of view and minimal moonlight interference.

To maximize visibility, go outside before dawn, find an unobstructed, dark spot, position yourself to shield your eyes from the bright moon, and look east toward Aquarius and the bright star Eta Aquarii.

Identify Eta Aquariids by radiating from near Zeta Aquarii and Sadachbia in Aquarius, with the radiant rising on the eastern horizon in early May.

No special equipment is needed; a dark site away from city lights, 20–30 minutes of eye adaptation, and lying back to scan the sky will reveal long, fast meteors.

The shower runs from mid-April to late May, with peak activity on May 5–6 and strong viewing in surrounding mornings through May 7.

Active from mid-April to late May, the Eta Aquarids peak in the early hours of May 5–6, 2026.

Consider using a stargazing app to locate the radiant about 40 degrees from the Moon, and check Space.com for meteor photography tips and gear recommendations.

Readers are invited to share astrophotography, including submitting photos with location and name via email.

Practical tips include bringing blankets or chairs, avoiding phone use to let eyes adjust, and choosing a viewing spot with a clear horizon and minimal light pollution.