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

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

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

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.

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