Stargazers are in for a celestial spectacle this month as the Lyrid meteor shower graces the night sky, promising up to 20 shooting stars per hour at its peak from Tuesday night into Wednesday morning.

This year’s event benefits from a faint crescent moon, leading to darker skies and optimal viewing conditions. According to the Royal Observatory calendar, the Lyrids will be active from April 16 to 25, with the best observation opportunity on April 22. The Lyra constellation will ascend in the north-east and reach its peak as the night progresses.

To locate Lyra, seek out Vega, a prominent star in the night sky during this period. Vega will gleam brightly above the north-eastern horizon after sunset, gradually ascending throughout the night. Utilizing stargazing apps can aid in pinpointing its position.

Avoid fixating on the radiant point, as the most impressive streaks are often visible slightly off-center. By scanning the surrounding sky and maintaining a general watch above, you increase your chances of witnessing these cosmic phenomena.

Under optimal conditions, it is possible to observe 15 to 20 meteors per hour, as noted by NASA and Space.com. The Lyrids are renowned for their rapid, luminous streaks that may leave glowing trails in their wake.

While the shower is visible globally, the Northern Hemisphere, particularly the UK, offers the best viewing opportunities if skies remain clear. Meteor showers occur when Earth traverses debris trails left behind by comets, with the fragments burning up upon entering our atmosphere, creating the dazzling streaks known as shooting stars.

The Lyrid meteor shower originates from debris shed by Comet Thatcher, an icy comet that passes Earth once every 415 years. Although the comet is seldom visible, Earth intersects its dusty trail each April. The Lyrids hold the distinction of being one of the oldest recorded meteor showers, with sightings documented for over 2,500 years.

If you miss the Lyrid meteor shower this week, the next prominent display will be the Eta Aquarids, derived from Halley’s comet debris, expected in early May, providing another opportunity to witness this celestial spectacle.