How to See the Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower on May 5 in Hawai‘i

Grab a blanket and get ready to stay up late.

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On May 5, a very slender crescent moon will set just after 8 p.m., creating a blank, dark canvas for the Eta Aquarid meteor shower. This is one of just two meteor showers created by burning debris from Halley’s Comet. Places closest to the equator get the best views of this annual event. Although viewing conditions should be ideal, Bishop Museum Planetarium Supervisor Tony Smith says don’t expect to see nonstop shooting stars. The Eta Aquarids are one of the lighter showers, peaking with about 20 to 40 meteors an hour, versus the flashier Perseids’ 80. Still, it’s a good excuse to head away from the city and look straight up toward the Aquarius constellation.