The Lyrid meteor shower is set to grace the skies on April 22-23, and stargazers are getting excited to witness this cosmic spectacle. The Lyrids are known for producing up to 15 meteors per hour under ideal viewing conditions.
This cosmic shower is a yearly event that takes place in mid-April when Earth passes through the debris trail of Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, resulting in a shower of shooting stars, according to NASA.
The meteor shower is named after the constellation Lyra, the point in the sky where the meteors seem to originate.
NIEDERHOLLABRUNN, AUSTRIA - APRIL 21: (EDITORS NOTE: Multiple exposures were combined to produce this image.) Startrails are seen during the Lyrids meteor shower over Michaelskapelle on April 21, 2020, in Niederhollabrunn, Austria
Unique, Unpredictable Skyrockets
While the Lyrids are not known for bright fireballs, they are unique because of their unpredictability. In fact, the first record of the Lyrid meteor shower dates back 2,700 years, making it one of the oldest recorded meteor showers in history.
Major Lyrid outbursts have been observed in the past, with descriptions of the shower resembling a shower of skyrockets. However, researchers are not able to predict Lyrid outbursts as well as some other meteor showers, making annual observations critical to improving models of the shower's activity.
If you are planning to watch the Lyrid meteor shower, here are five reminders to help you get the best viewing experience:
1. Find a dark place away from city lights
Light pollution can disrupt your view of the meteor shower, so it is recommended to find a dark place away from any source of artificial light. This could be a park, a hill, or any location with an unobstructed view of the sky.
2. Look straight up
The Lyrids will appear to originate from the constellation Lyra, which is located near the bright star Vega. However, you do not need to look at the constellation directly to see the meteors. Just look straight up, and you will have a good chance of spotting them by 10:30 local time on the night of April 22.
3. Wait for your eyes to adjust
According to NASA, it takes about 30 minutes for your eyes to fully adjust to the darkness. Avoid looking at your cell phone or any other source of bright light, as this will interrupt your night vision.
4. Be patient
While the Lyrids are known for producing up to 15 meteors per hour under ideal viewing conditions, it may take some time before you spot your first meteor. Be patient, and you will eventually see them.
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5. Watch during the pre-dawn hours
The peak of the Lyrid meteor shower is expected to occur in the pre-dawn hours of April 23, so plan to watch during this time for the best viewing experience. However, you can still see the Lyrids on the night before and after the peak, but the rates will be lower, maybe five per hour or so.
By following these tips, you'll have the best chance of witnessing the stunning Lyrid meteor shower. So mark your calendars, find a dark spot, and look up to witness this cosmic spectacle that has been captivating people for over 2,700 years.
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