Eta Aquarids 2026: Best Predawn Viewing Amid Moonlit Sky

The Eta Aquarid meteor shower runs April 19–May 28, with a broad peak overnight May 5–6. For northern observers, the best viewing is in the predawn hours around May 6 when the Aquarius radiant is highest. Southern Hemisphere tropics may see up to about 50 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. A bright Moon (84% illuminated) rises after midnight on May 5–6, washing out many dim meteors and likely keeping northern hourly counts below 10. To spot them, locate the Aquarius radiant with a sky app, then scan a patch about 40 degrees away from the radiant. Meteors are best seen with the naked eye, and the article also notes photography tips and a share-the-image opportunity.