Lyrids Meteor Shower Peak (overnight)

The annual Lyrids meteor shower, derived from particles dropped by comet C/1861 G1 (Thatcher), runs from April 16 to 29. It will peak in intensity at approximately 9 am EDT on Tuesday, April 22, but some meteors should be seen while the shower’s radiant point near the bright star Vega in Lyra climbs the eastern sky starting late on Monday night, April 21. The Lyrids can produce up to 15-20 meteors per hour at the peak, with occasional fireballs. The waning crescent moon rising in the wee hours shouldn’t hinder the shower this year. For best results, try to view the meteors from a safe location that has a wide open sky free of light pollution. Don’t focus your attention on the radiant because the meteors near it will be travelling towards you and have extremely short trails.