In early May, residents of Turkmenistan will be able to observe the annual May Aquarid meteor shower (Eta Aquarids). The shower is active from April 19 to May 28, but peaks on May 6–7, 2026, according to timeanddate.com for Ashgabat. During the peak period, up to 50 meteors per hour are expected.

The meteor shower takes its name from the star Eta Aquarii in the constellation Aquarius—it is from this point in the sky, called the radiant, that meteors appear to emanate. The Aquarids are one of two streams generated by debris from Halley's Comet; the other, the Orionids, is observed in October.

For residents of Ashgabat and other cities in Turkmenistan, the best time for observation is between 3:00 and 5:00 local time, when the radiant of the constellation Aquarius rises above the eastern horizon.

In 2026, observation will be partially obscured by the bright waning moon, which will remain above the horizon for most of the night. To improve viewing, experts recommend blocking the moon with a tree or building.

According to NASA, binoculars or a telescope are not required for observation. Simply go to a dark location away from urban light pollution and allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for 20–30 minutes. The best viewing spots are the outskirts of Ashgabat, outside the urban areas—in the direction of the Kopetdag Mountains or the open, flat areas north of the capital, where light pollution is minimal.