The Lyrid meteor shower is on the way! Set to begin on April 17, 2025, it peaks in the early hours of Tuesday, April 22. During this spectacular event, up to 18 meteors, including bright fireballs, could grace our skies each hour.
After a quiet period for meteor watchers in winter, spring brings the thrilling Lyrids. These meteors are known for their brilliance. Fireballs, which shine as brightly as Venus, are a highlight of this shower. The Lyrids will be visible from April 17 to 26, with the best viewing on the nights of April 21, 22, and 23. For the best experience, find a dark spot after midnight. The clear skies of spring will offer ideal conditions to see these celestial wonders.
The source of the Lyrids is the comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, which takes 422 years to orbit the sun. It last visited us in 1861 and won’t return until 2283. Dr. Nick Moskovitz from Lowell Observatory shares that this comet is mostly unseen, orbiting far from our view. However, it leaves behind tiny particles that create the Lyrids as Earth passes through its debris. Moskovitz explains that these particles vary in size, from fine dust to larger chunks, resulting in a stunning display of brightness during the shower.
Meteors occur when small rocks and dust enter our atmosphere and burn up, creating bright streaks of light. NASA explains that these pieces often come from comets or broken asteroids. Some Lyrids can be impressive fireballs, leaving trails in the sky as they burn up.
To catch a glimpse of the Lyrids, treat it like an outdoor stargazing night. Stay away from bright screens to preserve your night vision, and look around the entire sky. Even if the meteors appear to “fall” from the direction of the constellation Lyra, they are scattered across the night sky.
After the Lyrids, the Eta Aquarids will follow from April 19 to May 28, peaking on May 5. This shower, which can produce 40 to 60 meteors per hour, originates from Halley’s Comet, the most famous comet known to us.
Meteor showers like the Lyrids and Eta Aquarids are exciting events that connect us to the universe’s past. Engaging with these natural wonders not only brings joy but also a sense of wonder and curiosity about the cosmos.
For further reading on related celestial events, check out more from trusted sources like NASA. Enjoy the show!
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