By Doreen Ling
KUCHING, May 2: This month is set to be an exciting one for astronomy lovers as May’s night sky is expected to be packed with astronomical events, which include a meteor shower and a ‘Flower Moon’.
According to National Geographic, the Eta Aquariid meteor shower, which is active from April 20 to May 21, is expected to peak on the night of May 5 into the morning of May 6.
It is linked to the infamous Halley’s Comet, and observers can expect around 10 meteors per hour, with more likely to be seen in the Southern Hemisphere. Eta Aquariids’ meteors are known for their speed, leaving glowing streaks in the sky that can last from a few seconds to a few minutes.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) advised those keen to catch the astronomical event to find an area away from city lights or streetlights. It recommended stargazers to make themselves comfortable by bringing along a sleeping bag or blanket and to lie flat on their backs with their feet facing east and look up, taking in as much of the sky as possible.
“After about 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adapt, and you will begin to see meteors. Be patient—the show will last until dawn, so you have plenty of time to catch a glimpse,” said NASA.
According to Time and Date, the meteor shower is expected to peak in Kuching next Tuesday (May 6) at 3am, 4am, 5am, and 6am.
As for the Flower Moon, The Farmer’s Almanac (TFA) said that it is expected to occur on May 12 at 12.56pm EDT, which in Malaysian time translates to 12.56am on May 13.
Explaining the reason behind the moon’s floral-themed name, TFA said each month’s full moon often reflects natural events. In May, spring flowers are typically in bloom across North America.
The National Geographic explained that the Flower Moon will appear slightly smaller and dimmer than usual—dubbed a ‘micro moon’—as the moon has reached the point in its orbit farthest from Earth.
Other astronomical events of interest are Saturn’s equinox on May 6, which happens only once every 15 years.
“The sun shines directly over Saturn’s equator during this time, causing the planet’s famous rings to appear edge-on and nearly vanish from view.
“The phenomenon offers a rare chance to see Saturn with its rings strikingly thin and faint, as sunlight hits them at a dramatic angle,” said National Geographic.
On May 22, the moon and Saturn will have a close encounter, and stargazers are advised to use binoculars if they want both Saturn and the moon to fit into the field of view.
Then, on May 31, Venus will reach the maximum distance west of the sun in the sky, causing it to be so bright and conspicuous that it becomes the third brightest object in the sky after the sun and moon. — DayakDaily
