Airdrie stargazers will be able to catch a show next week.
On Tuesday (May 5), the Eta Aquarids meteor shower will be at its peak. It has been active since April 20 and will last until May 21. At its peak, you could see around 10 meteors per hour.
According to Almanac.com, the debris from Halley’s Comet creates the Eta Aquarids.
“Eta Aquarids are often seen closer to the horizon in the Northern Hemisphere.”
The meteor shower will occur during a waning gibbous moon (92 per cent full), meaning brighter night skies that could make the display more difficult to see.
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According to NASA, Eta Aquarid meteors are known for their speed, with the meteors travelling at about 40.7 miles (65.4 kilometres) per second into Earth’s atmosphere.
“Fast meteors can leave glowing “trains” (incandescent bits of debris in the wake of the meteor) which last for several seconds to minutes. About 50 meteors can be seen per hour during the peak of the Eta Aquarids.”
NASA advises heading to a location away from city and street lights to get the best view of the Eta Aquarids. It suggests bringing a sleeping bag, blanket or lawn chair, then lying flat on your back with your feet facing east and looking up to take in as much of the sky as possible. After about 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adjust, making it easier to spot meteors.
The next meteor shower is the Delta Aquarids on July 30.
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