From: Brian Cudnik 
To: dunham@erols.com
Subject: Lunar eta Aquarids

David, can we coordinate some IOTA observers to systematically monitor
the Moon from May 6 to 10 for impacts by lunar Aquarids?  The shower
actually peaks around May 4/5, which closely coincides with New Moon,
but two days later, people can begin monitoring the moon for meteor
hits.  According to Sky & Tel, the meteor shower should remain close to
its peak intensity from May 6 to 10, which is when I am coordinating a
watch.  I've provided a lunar blank and report form on the ALPO/Lunar
Meteoritic Impact Search website that people can use to plot and report
impact sightings.  These meteors are swift (Earth-relative velocity 66 
km/sec, almost as fast as the 71 km/sec of the Leonids), meaning more 
energy is available for creating visible flashes.  The sub-meteor point 
is roughly 60 deg. west of the CM meridian, near the lunar equator, so 
the best place to watch is from the terminator to just east of the 
selenocenter.  For more, see the ALPO lunar 
impacts Web page.

        Brian Cudnik
        Current Acting ALPO/LMIS coordinator

More eta Aquarid impacts recorded in California, U.T. May 8 & 9 - May 9