By MOOK Scenic Spots Family, compiled and reported
The annual Eta Aquarid meteor shower, which occurs in May, has favorable viewing conditions this year for its peak. Those who enjoy watching meteors should seize this great opportunity. Among the planets in May, Jupiter is the most noteworthy. Following its opposition on the 8th of last month, it remains very suitable for viewing this month.
Diagram of the peak period of the 2017 Eta Aquarid meteor shower on May 6. (Image source / Taipei Astronomical Museum)
The Eta Aquarid meteor shower (η-Aquariids, ETA) originates from the famous Halley’s Comet and meteors can be seen between April 19 and May 28. The meteors are extremely fast (66 km per second), with an average brightness of about magnitude 2. About one-third of the meteors leave a persistent trail lasting more than one second. This year’s peak will occur at 10:00 AM (Taiwan Time) on May 6, with an estimated ZHR of 50 (which may vary between 40 and 85). Those wishing to observe should aim for the viewing window between 2:00 AM and 4:00 AM, when the sky is still dark and the moon has set, minimizing moonlight interference. Although it’s not yet the peak, under optimal conditions, you may still spot over ten Eta Aquarid meteors during this time.
To watch a meteor shower, choose a location away from light pollution with a wide field of view—simply use your naked eyes to observe the entire sky. Generally, high mountain areas above 2,000 meters, with minimal light pollution and clean, dry air, offer the chance to see more meteors.