The Lyrid meteor shower is currently dazzling skywatchers, offering a captivating display of shooting stars. This yearly event takes place from April 15 to April 29, providing an opportunity to witness dozens of meteors streaking across the sky. While the peak activity of the meteor shower occurred from Sunday night to Monday morning, enthusiasts can still enjoy the show for the following week.
On Tuesday night, stargazers will have the chance to witness the Lyrids in conjunction with the April full moon, also known as the “pink moon.” Despite its name, the supermoon does not appear pink but is incredibly luminous. Watching the bright moon alongside a meteor shower is a rare astronomical experience, although the moon’s radiance may make it challenging to spot the shooting stars. However, with a few tricks up your sleeve, you might still catch a glimpse of this stunning phenomenon.
For those in the Northern Hemisphere, the ideal time to observe the Lyrids is in the early morning hours after the moon has set and before sunrise. According to NASA, waking up before dawn on Wednesday, around 5:45 a.m. ET, will offer the best opportunity to witness the meteor shower without interference from the moon’s glare. If you prefer to view the shooting stars while the pink moon shines on Tuesday night, ensure your surroundings are as dark as possible to minimize light pollution.
To enhance your chances of seeing the Lyrid meteor shower, locate a spot far from city lights and streetlamps. Position yourself with your feet facing east, lying flat on your back to maximize your field of vision. Avoid obstructions like trees or buildings that may obstruct your view of the sky. It typically takes around 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness before the meteors become visible. Despite the bright presence of the “pink” supermoon, patient observers may still be rewarded with a celestial spectacle.
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