Don't miss the Eta Aquarid meteor shower 2026 peak tonight! Viewing times, locations and tips

Heads up, skywatchers! Don't miss the Eta Aquarid meteor shower tonight, as activity peaks in the predawn hours of May 6. Under ideal conditions, it's possible to see up to 60 meteors per hour when viewing from the Southern Hemisphere, but viewers in the Northern Hemisphere will see significantly fewer due to the Eta Aquarid radiant (the point in the sky the meteors appear to streak from) remaining low above the southeast horizon. But viewing conditions are not looking promising for the Eta Aquarids this year. The peak occurs not long after the full moon on May 1, meaning the moon will still be about 81% illuminated during peak activity. Its bright light will wash out fainter meteors. However, that's not to say the shower is not worth looking for if you've got clear skies. The Eta Aquarids are known for producing dazzling " Earthgrazers " in the past, bright meteors emerging from Aquarius and skimming the atmosphere horizontally, leaving bright, colorful, long-lasting trails. Article continues below Where to look Aquarius constellation position Right ascension: 23 hours Declination: -15 degrees Latitudes: Between 65 and -90 degrees For observers in the Northern Hemisphere, the Eta Aquarids will appear low on the horizon, emanating from the constellation Aquarius. For observers in the Southern Hemisphere, the Eta Aquarids are one of the best meteor showers of the year as the radiant appears much higher in the sky. The Eta Aquarids radiate from the constellation Aquarius. …