The Lyrid meteor shower is currently dazzling spectators with its annual celestial show. From April 15 to April 29, the sky is lit up with dozens of shooting stars as part of this beautiful phenomenon. The peak of the meteor shower was on Sunday night to Monday morning, but its display will continue for the next week.
This year, the Lyrids coincide with the April full moon, also known as the “pink moon,” which will rise at 7:49 p.m. ET. Despite not actually being pink, this supermoon shines brightly in the night sky. While witnessing the moon alone is breathtaking, observing it during a meteor shower is a rare and extraordinary opportunity.
In order to maximize your chances of spotting shooting stars, it is recommended to view the meteor shower during the early morning hours after the moon sets and before sunrise. For optimal viewing, waking up before dawn at around 5:45 a.m. ET would provide an ideal opportunity to see the Lyrids without the moon’s interference.
To enhance your stargazing experience, it is crucial to minimize light pollution by selecting a viewing location far away from city lights and street lamps. NASA suggests finding a spot with minimal light interference to ensure clear visibility of the meteor shower. When positioning yourself, lie on your back with your feet towards the east and maintain an unobstructed view of the sky.
After settling into your chosen spot, allow approximately 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Following this adjustment period, you may begin to witness the emergence of meteors streaking across the sky. Despite the luminous presence of the “pink” supermoon, exercise patience as the shooting stars make their appearance. While the moon may outshine some of the meteors, it will undoubtedly offer a mesmerizing show of its own.
The Lyrid meteor shower presents a captivating astronomical display that is enhanced by the presence of the April full moon. By following these tips and selecting an optimal viewing location, you can increase your chances of spotting shooting stars and appreciating the beauty of this celestial event. Enjoy the celestial spectacle and marvel at the wonders of the universe during this year’s Lyrid meteor shower.