The Lyrid meteor shower, the first major meteor shower of the year, is set to dazzle skywatchers with fireballs tonight. However, conditions for viewing may be less than ideal due to a nearly-full Moon at the peak of the shower.
Despite this, the Lyrid meteor shower is one of the oldest-known meteor showers, with recorded observations dating back over 2,700 years. The peak time to see the Lyrid meteor shower in 2024 is Monday night, 22-23 April, with the radiant located in the constellation Lyra the Lyre. The radiant will rise higher in the sky as the night goes on during the peak.
Under ideal conditions, viewers could expect to see around 18 meteors per hour. However, due to the bright Moon this year, only a few bright meteors may be visible. Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through a field of debris left behind by a comet or asteroid.
For those hoping to catch a glimpse of the Lyrid meteor shower, experts recommend minimizing light pollution, allowing your night vision to develop, and looking away from the Moon. Dr. Darren Baskill, an astrophysicist, provides expert insight and guidance for viewing meteor showers.
While conditions may not be perfect this year, skywatchers are still encouraged to take advantage of this celestial event and enjoy the natural wonder that is the Lyrid meteor shower.
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