Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower 2013: When is the Peak and Where to Watch

Originally reported by Todd Richissin.

Sign up for Urbandale Patch's free newsletter | Like us on Facebook | Follow us on Twitter

The Eta Aquarid meteor shower 2013 peak, fresh on the heels of the Lyrids, is expected on May 5, but the show over Ankeny has already begun.

The weather forecast for the Ankeny area calls for rain skies over the weekend, so that could make things difficult. Things should be clearing early next week, so you could catch the end of the peak.

Already, though, you may be able to see a decent show if there's a break in the clouds.

Try to find a dark place and time your viewing in the 4- to 5-hour period before dawn.

Take a look at the Ashton Observatory Clear Sky Chart for more detailed info about sky clarity

Eta Aquarids get their name from Aquarius, the constellation you'll look toward to catch what have come to be known as "shooting stars" -- which aren't shooting stars at all. What you will actually see are flakes of dust from Halley's Comet. 

In May and October, Earth passes through the stream of dust in Halley's wake, giving us first the Eta Aquarid meteor shower and then the Orionids.

You can see what to look for in this video of the Eta Aquarid meteor shower. And you can view photos and charts of the Aquarids.