Delta Aqaurids meteor shower set to peak this week

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Get ready for some phenomenal sky-gazing. The Delta Aquarid meteor shower will peak this Thursday & Friday (July 28 & 29.) That’s a total Amy-O-Meter “10!”

Some astronomers believe this meteor shower originates from the comet 96P/Machholz, but that’s disputed by some other star gazers.

The short-period comet was discovered in 1986 by Donald Machholz.

Scientists say it orbits the sun about once every five years.

The Delta Aquarid meteor shower gets its name because the meteors appear to originate near the constellation Aquarius, near one of the constellation’s brightest stars, Delta Aquarii.

During the peak of the shower astronomers say the hourly rate of meteors can reach 15-20 meteors in a dark sky without light pollution.

According to astronomers, comets partially melt and leave behind pieces of dust and rock when they fly close to the sun.

Meteor showers happen when Earth passes through this comet debris.

The chunks of rock hurtle through our atmosphere to burn up upon entry.

That’s what causes our spectacular view.

To experience the show, NASA suggests you head outside early, since it takes your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness.

The experts advise laying on your back gives you the best chance to catch some of the shooting stars, since you get a panoramic view of the night sky.

So head out Thursday night, away from city lights, spread out a blanket and enjoy the show. Happy sky-gazing!