Context:

The Eta Aquariid meteor shower, originating from Halley's comet, is set to reach its peak soon, providing a spectacular celestial display, especially in the Southern Hemisphere. This shower is the last until late July and is best viewed in the early morning hours before dawn on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, with dark skies enhancing visibility as the moon sets by 3 a.m. Observers in the Northern Hemisphere can expect to see 10 to 20 meteors per hour, while those in the Southern Hemisphere might see significantly more. The meteors appear to radiate from the northeastern part of the Aquarius constellation, though they actually burn up just 60 miles above Earth's surface. To maximize the viewing experience, individuals should seek out areas with minimal light pollution and allow time for their eyes to adjust to the darkness.

Dive Deeper:

• The Eta Aquariid meteor shower is highly anticipated due to its origin from Halley's comet, and it will peak in early May, providing a stunning show in the Southern Hemisphere and marking the last meteor event until late July.

• Optimal viewing for the Eta Aquariid meteor shower is in the early morning hours before dawn on specific days, with the moon setting early to provide dark skies, crucial for enhancing the meteor visibility.

• In the Northern Hemisphere, viewers may see 10 to 20 meteors per hour, whereas those in southern regions, including the Southern Hemisphere, could witness a higher frequency of meteors due to the shower's geographical characteristics.

• The meteors appear to come from the Aquarius constellation but actually disintegrate at a distance of about 60 miles above Earth, creating swift trails that linger briefly in the sky.

• For the best viewing experience of the Eta Aquariids, it's advised to find a location away from city lights, with a clear and wide view of the sky, and to allow 20 to 30 minutes for eyes to adjust to the darkness without distractions from electronic devices.