Don’t miss the world’s most iconic meteor shower this week

Earth is passing through the path of Halley’s comet once again. Get ready for an epic meteor shower this week.

Halley’s Comet has captivated humans for millennia, earning icon status as one of the most spectacular celestial events in our skies. While it won’t return for another 36 years, debris left in its wake creates an annual meteor shower that lights up the sky with streaks of light. This year, mark your calendars for 6-7 May, when peak meteor activity from the Eta Aquariids Shower is expected. Best of all? It’s most visible in the southern hemisphere, and Australians are positioned for the best seats in the house to catch a glimpse of this spectacular display. Here’s how to make sure you don’t miss this dazzling meteor shower.

What is the Eta Aquariids Shower?

A meteor shower happens when the Earth passes through the meteoroids (essentially, bits of rock and space dust) left behind by the path of a comet. When they hit the atmosphere, they burn up and produce an otherworldly display of lights zipping across the sky. The Eta Aquariids Shower happens every year when the Earth passes through the meteoroids left behind by the path of Halley’s comet, last seen in 1986. She’s not due back until 2061, but the annual Eta Aquariids Shower is a magnificent reminder of her impending return.

Circle your calendar, the Eta Aquariids Shower will peak 6-7 May. (Image: Getty/Willscape)

When to see the Eta Aquariids Shower?

The Eta Aquariids Shower is usually active between 19 April and 28 May every year, but it’s set to reach its peak from 6-7 May this year, meaning these nights will be your best shot at catching a glimpse, weather permitting!

The Eta Aquariids Shower is caused by Earth passing through the debris from Halley’s Comet, creating stunning streaks of light. (Image: Getty/ Merrillie)

How to see the Eta Aquariids meteor shower

The answer is simple: all you need is a clear night, a dark area and a little patience. The best recipe for viewing the meteor shower is to head away from sources of light pollution, pour yourself a beverage of choice, give your eyes time to adjust and wait for the show to start. We’ve rounded up some of the best stargazing spots in Australia for a little bit of inspiration.

Won’t be able to see the Eta Aquariids meteor shower this year? Don’t worry, it will return next year, as will the world’s oldest meteor shower – the Lyrids.