One of the Year's Brightest Meteor to Light Up Qatar's Sky
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Qatar residents can watch the meteor shower with the naked eye from Monday night until dawn on Tuesday.
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Skywatchers in Qatar and across the Northern Hemisphere will get a chance to witness the Eta Aquarids meteor shower as it reaches its peak from the night of Monday, May 5, until early Tuesday, May 6, 2025, according to the Qatari Calendar House (QCH).
Up to 50 Meteors Per Hour Expected
Dr. Bashir Marzouk, an astronomer at QCH, said the Eta Aquarids is one of the most active meteor showers of the year, with rates of up to 50 visible meteors per hour during its peak. This annual shower runs from April 19 to May 28, but May 5 marks the best night to see it.
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The shower is caused by dust left behind by Halley’s Comet, which Earth passes through around this time every year. As these particles hit Earth’s atmosphere, they burn up and create bright streaks across the night sky.
No Telescope Needed – Just Look Southeast
Marzouk explained that the meteor shower is best viewed in areas with low light and minimal pollution. In Qatar, you won’t need a telescope or binoculars. Just look toward the southeastern sky from midnight until dawn for the best view.
Photographers can also capture the event using digital cameras with long exposure settings for striking shots of the meteors.
When and Where to Watch in Qatar
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Date: Night of Monday, May 5 to early morning of Tuesday, May 6
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Time: From midnight to sunrise
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Direction: Southeastern horizon
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Visibility: Best in dark, open areas away from city lights
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Equipment: Not required, but cameras with long exposure can help
Whether you're a stargazer or just looking for a cool natural event, this is one night you might want to step outside and look up.