Сорок огненных стрел в час: 6 мая ожидается максимальная активность метеорного потока эта-Аквариды

The Eta Aquarids meteors owe their existence to Halley's Comet, which was observed in 1986

On May 6, 2025, Russian astronomers will be able to observe the impressive Eta Aquarids meteor shower. According to experts from the Moscow Planetarium, enthusiasts will be able to see up to 40 meteors per hour.

Eta Aquarids meteor shower

This unique astronomical phenomenon will begin in the constellation Aquarius. The best visibility is expected in the Southern Hemisphere. Russians will be able to observe the meteor shower shortly before dawn on the southeastern horizon.

The peak activity of the May Aquarids will occur on the night of May 6, 2025, at 6:00 AM Moscow time. Up to 40 meteors per hour are expected.
Experts from the Moscow Planetarium

This impressive meteor shower is a direct legacy of Halley's Comet. Twice a year, our planet passes through the dust trail left by it. The comet itself, which became the progenitor of this celestial show, rarely appears in the field of view of earthlings — it was last observed in 1986, and the next appearance is expected only in 2061.

Eta Aquarids meteors are characterized by high speed and often leave behind bright trails that can remain visible for several seconds. This makes them especially attractive for observation even without special equipment.

Experts advise starting observations around 03:00 Moscow time to catch the maximum number of meteors. In clear weather, the chances of seeing this natural phenomenon are very high.

For those who cannot observe the phenomenon in person, many observatories are planning a live broadcast of the meteor shower in real time.

Read more on this topic:

Magnetic Storms "on the Threshold": Geostorm to Hit Earth from April 25 to 27

Siberian Scientists to Send Strawberry Seeds to Find Out How Space Affects Their Growth

"Cosmic Smile" to Illuminate Russia's Predawn Sky