TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - May has just begun, and it is already presenting another celestial show. The Eta Aquariid meteor shower, originating from debris left behind by Halley’s Comet, is set to peak overnight from May 5 to 6. These exceptionally fast meteors will not be alone in drawing stargazers’ eyes upward, as Venus will climb ahead of the sun, shining brightly in the growing glow of dawn as a morning star.
Here is how to catch the Eta Aquariids and Venus at their best this week.
When Will the Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower Peak?
Forbes noted that the Eta Aquariid meteor shower will peak overnight from May 5 to 6. Of these dates, the best viewing time will be the pre-dawn hours of May 6, according to Space.com.
When Will Venus Be Visible?
As noted by People.com, Venus will rise higher in the eastern sky one to two hours before dawn from May 4 to 8, shining in the brightening pre-dawn sky.
Where Will the Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower Be Visible?
The Eta Aquariid meteor shower appears to radiate from the constellation Aquarius, located in the eastern sky. Stargazers from the southern hemisphere tropics can expect the strongest displays, with rates reaching up to 50 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. Meanwhile, those in the Northern Hemisphere will experience a less favorable view, typically seeing around 10 to 30 meteors per hour.
Where Will Venus Be Visible?
This week, Venus will be visible before sunrise in the eastern sky, standing out as the brightest point of light after the moon.
How to Watch Venus and the Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower
Start by waking up early, about one to two hours before sunrise. Position yourself in a spot with a clear view of the eastern horizon, and allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for around 20 minutes. No special equipment is needed, as both the meteors and Venus can be seen with the naked eye.
Upcoming Night Sky Events
Next week, a Mars–Saturn conjunction with a crescent Moon will take center stage. By mid-month, the Milky Way core season officially begins, followed by a Moon–Venus conjunction on May 18. Closing the month is a rare Blue Moon on May 31, while Venus and Jupiter appear near each other in the sky throughout the month. If you are looking to explore more, be sure to check out the complete May stargazing guide here.
Read: Stargazers' Guide to Dazzling Night Sky Events in May
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
How to Spot Venus and Uranus Tonight: A Celestial Waltz
11 hari lalu
Tonight, Venus and Uranus will create a celestial display visible from Earth. Learn how to spot them with the naked eye.
Rare Planetary Parade on February 28: See 6 Planets at Once
26 Februari 2026
Some planets, including Venus and Mercury, will be visible to the naked eye, though telescopes or binoculars can enhance the view.
Latest NASA Study Finds Venus Likely Still Geologically Active After Decades
26 Mei 2025
The surface of Venus is still being shaped by activities from within the planet, more than 30 years after NASA's Magellan spacecraft mapped its surface.
"Smiley Face" Sky Phenomenon on April 25: What to Expect and How to View It
23 April 2025
The eastern sky will feature a rare celestial event this Friday, April 25, 2025, with three celestial objects aligning to form a smiling face.
Pink Moon to Appear on April 12, 2025 Before Easter
7 April 2025
The Pink Moon will occur on April 12, 2025 before Easter, accompanied by the appearance of planets such as Venus, Mars, and Jupiter in various parts of the Earth.
5 Planets Align in Rare Astronomical Event, Here's How to View It
23 Juni 2022
A rare astronomical event in 2022 will take place when five planets in our solar system align: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn.
NASA Mulls Possible Mission to Venus
18 September 2020
NASA is considering approving by next April up to two planetary science missions from four proposals under review, including one to Venus.
