The Lyrid meteor shower is set to light up the UK skies from 16 to 25 April, offering a spectacular display of short-lived streaks of light in the night sky. This celestial event occurs every year between mid to late April and peaks on Tuesday, coinciding with the Moon’s last quarter.
For optimal viewing conditions, it’s essential to have clear skies and dark environments. The meteors are created by debris from Comet Thatcher, which takes over 400 years to orbit the Sun, and can produce up to 18 meteors per hour.
To increase your chances of witnessing this phenomenon, try to avoid times when the moon is at its brightest and minimize light pollution. Be patient, as it may take around 15-20 minutes for your eyes to adapt to the darkness. Dress warmly and stay comfortable while viewing the sky.
The weather forecast is mixed for the coming days, with areas of cloud and rain expected to obscure the view at times. However, there will also be drier interludes and clear skies. Check your local forecast and sunrise/sunset times on the BBC Weather website or app to plan your viewing session.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/weather/articles/cpq7v3d9e0jo