Cross your fingers for a clear sky because the Lyrids Meteor Shower will be visible over Canada this month, and you could be in for quite the show!
What is the Lyrids Meteor Shower?
Active between April 15 and April 29, the Lyrids event is one of the oldest known meteor showers and is best observed in the Northern Hemisphere, meaning some Canadians are about to get lucky!
For over 2,700 years, these speedy meteors have dazzled stargazers — especially during its peak, which will occur on the evening of April 21, leading into the early hours of the 22.
While few and far between (an average of five to six meteors an hour), those who look up are encouraged to take a camera, snacks, and a date to an area away from light pollution for bright streaks of light and maybe even the occasional “fireball.”
Viewing tips and tricks
Interested in checking it out? The Lyrids can be seen between sunset and dawn.
“Come prepared with a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair,” explains NASA.
“Lie flat on your back with your feet facing east and look up, taking in as much of the sky as possible. After about 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adapt, and you will begin to see meteors.”
If you miss this year’s display, don’t fret.
Meteor showers are made up of bits and pieces from broken asteroids, and every year, the Earth will pass through this particular debris trail in addition to others.
In May, keep an eye out for the Eta Aquarids, the Perseids Meteor Shower, which peaks in August, as well as others in the fall and winter.
There’s nothing quite like seeing a streak of light in a sky full of stars, so get ready, get set, and make a wish.
The Lyrids Meteor Shower is quite the treat!
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