✦ Meteor Shower

Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower 2026

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Add Eta Aquariids to your calendar (.ics)

The Eta Aquariids are debris from Halley's Comet, which swings by Earth every 76 years. Earth crosses the debris trail twice a year: in early May (Eta Aquariids) and late October (Orionids). The May meteors are fast — 66 km/s — and leave long, persistent trains in the sky. Active from mid-April through late May, they peak around May 5–6 with up to 40 meteors per hour. The shower favours the Southern Hemisphere, but Northern observers can still catch fast meteors low on the horizon in the hour before dawn.

2026 Conditions

Peak Night
May 5-6
Max Meteors/Hour
40
Moon Conditions
🌑 Great
Speed
Fast (66 km/s)

About the Eta Aquariids

Debris from Halley's Comet. Best from the Southern Hemisphere, but Northern observers can catch fast meteors low on the horizon before dawn.

Active period: Apr 19 – May 28
Parent body: Comet 1P/Halley
Radiant: Aquarius

How to Watch

  • Find a location away from city lights with a clear view of the sky
  • Lie on your back and look straight up — no telescope or binoculars needed
  • Give your eyes 20 minutes to adapt to the darkness
  • Best viewing is usually after midnight when the radiant is highest
  • Dress warm and bring a blanket — you'll be lying still for a while

Don't Miss the Eta Aquariids

Get a reminder the day before the peak so you can plan your viewing.

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