“May Skywatching Guide 2023: Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower, Lunar Eclipse, Conjunctions, and More”

Comet Halley, the most famous of all, is responsible for two of the main meteor showers of the year: the Eta Aquarids, in May, and the Orionids, in October. (Photo: Disclosure)

Meteor showers occur when the Earth passes through regions where there is a greater concentration of cosmic dust, usually left by comets as they perform their long orbits around the Sun. Comet Halley, the most famous of all, is responsible for two of the main meteor showers of the year: the Eta Aquarids, in May, and the Orionids, in October.

For those living in the Southern Hemisphere, the Eta Aquarids are one of the best meteor showers of the year. It’s worth turning up at dawn and enjoying this celestial show.

DAY 5 – In the twilight

The first lunar eclipse of the year will be of the penumbral type, when the Moon passes only through the least dark region of the Earth’s shadow. It’s a subtle phenomenon: only a small decrease in the Moon’s brightness will be noticed. Unfortunately it will not be visible from Brazil, but it can be followed on the internet. The peak is at 14:53.

DAY 6 – Meteors at dawn

At dawn, the peak of the Eta Aquariids meteors, which are caused by dust grains left by Comet Halley. Look east from 2am. The darker the observation location, the more meteors you will see.

DAY 17 – Meeting at dawn

The waning Moon is positioned right next to the planet Jupiter in the hours before sunrise, forming a beautiful conjunction. Look East from 4:30 am.

DAY 29 – Mercury Hunt

This month’s challenge is to find the planet Mercury in the dawn sky. Jupiter will be right above it, which can make the task a little easier. Look East from 5am.