The annual Lyrid meteor shower is currently happening, with its peak expected on Monday night and into the early-morning hours of Tuesday. Skywatchers across the Northern Hemisphere may be able to see up to 15 shooting stars per hour during this time, as long as they are in a dark location. The Lyrids are known as one of the most reliable meteor showers of the year and are popular due to their timing in the spring when temperatures are more temperate.
The peak of this year’s Lyrid meteor shower coincides with a waning crescent moon that will be about 27% full, reducing the likelihood of bright moonlight washing out the shooting stars. NASA recommends watching outside from Monday night after 10 p.m. local time until dawn the next morning, with the best viewing time around 5 a.m. local time on Tuesday. Skywatchers in the Northern Hemisphere are most likely to observe the Lyrids, but those in the Southern Hemisphere may also have a chance.
To fully enjoy the meteor shower, it is advised to find an unobstructed viewing location away from city lights and light pollution, facing east and allowing time for your eyes to adjust to the dark. Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through debris from comets or asteroids, with the Lyrids specifically caused by debris from Comet Thatcher. The Lyrid meteor shower will continue until April 29 after its peak on Monday night.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
