The Eta Aquariid meteor shower, peaking on May 5 and 6, 2025, offers a dazzling display caused by Earth passing through debris left by Halley’s Comet. Though the comet itself won’t return until 2061, its ancient trail lights up the sky each year.

As tiny fragments from Halley’s orbit enter our atmosphere at speeds up to 66 km/s, they burn up and create bright, fast-moving meteors. Southern Hemisphere observers may see up to 50 meteors per hour; in the Northern Hemisphere, expect 10–20.

Best viewing times are between 3:00 and 5:00 a.m. local time. Find a dark spot away from city lights, let your eyes adjust, and no special equipment is needed.

Photographers should use a tripod, wide-angle lens, long exposures, and manual focus. Though best seen in the Southern Hemisphere, viewers worldwide can enjoy this cosmic event and marvel at the enduring legacy of Halley’s Comet.