Lyrids Meteor Shower: Your Guide to the Night Sky Spectacle

The Lyrids meteor shower is happening now and will reach its peak on the night of April 22. This annual event runs from April 16 to April 25. The Lyrids are famous for their swift and luminous meteors. These meteors can leave behind trails of light that last for a few seconds. On average, viewers can expect to see between 15 to 20 meteors per hour during this shower. This year, the Zenithal Hourly Rate (ZHR) is predicted to be around 18 meteors per hour. This rate can be achieved under ideal conditions, such as clear, dark skies and when the radiant point is directly overhead. The radiant point is the area in the sky where the meteors seem to originate. Sometimes, the Lyrids can produce a sudden surge, known as an outburst, with up to 100 meteors per hour. However, these outbursts are unpredictable. The Lyrids come from the debris of Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher. This comet, discovered in 1861, has a long orbit around the sun, taking about 415 years to complete one cycle. Every April, Earth passes through the comet's debris trail. As tiny particles from the comet enter Earth's atmosphere at high speeds, they burn up and create the bright streaks of light we see as meteors. One of the best things about this year's Lyrids is the minimal moonlight interference. The thin crescent moon will not brighten the sky too much, making it easier to spot the meteors. The optimal time to watch the Lyrids is between midnight and dawn. During this period, the radiant point is higher in the sky, and Earth is moving into the stream of meteors. To get the most out of the Lyrids, find a spot with a clear view of the night sky and minimal light pollution. Dress warmly and bring a comfortable chair so you can look up at the sky without straining your neck. It can take up to 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. If you need a light, use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. Remember, meteors can appear from any direction, so keep your eyes on the whole sky, not just the radiant point.