Earth is currently passing through a stream of cosmic debris left behind by Halley's Comet, triggering the annual Eta Aquariids meteor shower.

This celestial event occurs every year when our planet intersects the comet's orbit, causing tiny particles to slam into Earth's atmosphere and burn up in brilliant streaks of light. The Eta Aquariids derive their name from the constellation Aquarius, where the meteors appear to originate, also known as the radiant point.

Although Halley's Comet itself only swings past Earth once every 76 years, its debris continues to deliver an annual spectacle. 

Eta Aquariid meteors are known for their exceptional speed, entering Earth's atmosphere at around 66 km/s. This high velocity often produces bright streaks and lingering luminous trails that can persist for several seconds after the meteor itself has vanished.

Occasionally, brighter fireballs may also be visible, cutting dramatically across the sky. This year, visibility may be slightly impacted by a bright waning gibbous moon, which will be about 84% illuminated at peak.

According to the American Meteor Society, the moonlight will wash out fainter meteors, reducing overall visibility.The meteor shower reaches its peak overnight from Tuesday, May 5, into the early hours of Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

Source:Ndtv