The Lyrid meteor shower is returning to the skies later this week, offering a spectacular display of bright, whizzing fireballs in the Northern Hemisphere. The shower, formed from leftover particles from comet Thatcher, becomes visible every April as our planet passes through its debris trail.
When will it peak?
The Lyrids will next peak between Monday, April 21 and Tuesday, April 22, with activity beginning on Thursday and ceasing by April 26. This overlap with the Eta Aquarids meteor shower makes for a potentially exciting viewing experience.
How to see the Lyrids
To spot the meteors, head above the horizon toward the northeast between about 9 to 10 p.m. EDT, focusing on the constellation Lyra and its bright star Vega. Although the radiant is not a reliable guide, lying flat with feet facing east will make the meteors appear longer and more spectacular.
Tips from NASA include finding an area away from city lights, bringing a comfortable viewing spot, and allowing your eyes to adapt in the dark (about 30 minutes). Visit Time and Date for detailed information on where and when to witness the phenomenon.
How many Lyrid meteors will be visible?
While 10-20 meteors per hour are typical during peak activity, up to 100 can be seen per hour. These fast and bright meteors produce occasional fireballs without glowing dust trails.
What causes the Lyrid meteors?
Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through dusty debris trails left by comets and space objects. The Lyrids are composed of pieces from comet Thatcher, a trail that takes nearly 416 years to complete.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/04/15/lyrids-meteor-shower-peak-april-2025/83095089007