Halley's Comet in 1986.
Image Credit: NASA
May 04, 2015 - 3:34 PM
THOMPSON-OKANAGAN - A nearly full moon may play havoc with the Aquarids Meteor Shower as it peaks this week but there is still a chance to see some of the brightest meteors if you can find a patch of clear sky and are patient.
The product of dust particles left behind by Halley’s Comet, the shower is known to produce up to 30 meteors per hour in the Northern Hemisphere.
The meteor shower runs annually from mid-April through the end of May, and usually peaks the first week of May. This year it is expected to peak the night of May 5 through the morning of May 6, though it may peak the day before or after as well.
Sky watchers note the best time to view the meteor shower is often an hour or two before dawn but this year a nearly full moon will also fill the sky, making them more difficult to see.
As long as the sky clears and you can find a dark location outside of town, you should still be able to see some bright meteors.
Dress warm, bring a blanket or lawn chair to stretch out on, and sit back and watch the sky for ‘shooting stars.’ They will appear to radiate from the Aquarius constellation but may be seen anywhere in the sky.
If you plan on taking a run at some night photography, check out these tips for getting the most out of your trip.
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News from © iNFOnews, 2015