As April arrives, skywatchers are in for a treat with two spectacular meteor showers: the Lyrid and Eta Aquariid. These annual events promise unforgettable views, with the best visibility depending on your location.
The Lyrid meteor shower begins on April 17 and peaks from April 21 to 22. This event occurs when Earth passes through debris left behind by Comet C/1861 G1 (Thatcher), which has a long orbital period of 422 years around the Sun. The meteors appear to radiate from near the constellation Lyra, giving them their name.
The best time to observe the Lyrids is on April 21, just before moonrise, when the sky is clear. You can witness up to 10-15 meteors per hour in ideal conditions, although this will vary depending on your location and weather conditions.
The northern hemisphere will have the best view of the Lyrid meteor shower, particularly North America, Europe, and Asia. Finding a dark, unobstructed location away from city lights is crucial for maximizing your experience.
In contrast, the Eta Aquariid meteor shower occurs from April 20 to May 21, with its peak between May 2 and 3. This event originates from the debris trail of Halley’s Comet, which returns every 76 years. The meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Aquarius.
The Eta Aquariids can produce up to 50-60 meteors per hour during their peak, although this may vary depending on your viewing location. The southern hemisphere will have the best view of this meteor shower, with North America and Europe experiencing fewer space rocks – around 20 per hour in ideal conditions.
For both showers, no special equipment is necessary to enjoy the experience. Simply find a comfortable spot, clear skies, and use your own two eyes. Binoculars or a telescope can enhance the viewing experience but are not required.
To make the most of these meteor showers, check Time and Date for precise local conditions and predictions. You can also download the International Meteor Organization’s 2025 meteor shower calendar to stay ahead of future sky streak events.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/04/two-meteorabout-to-rock-the-night-sky