Numerous individuals include this item on their goal lists.
Now is your last opportunity to possibly spot a shooting star, as a magnificent meteor shower is expected to reach its zenith this evening.
Although the Lyrid Meteor Shower remains active for the majority of April, it will reach its official maximum tonight.
Even without a telescope, astute observers will have the capacity to perceive as many as eighteen shooting stars traversing the atmosphere each hour.
How and when to observe the Lyrid Meteor Shower from the United Kingdom is detailed in this article.
To what does the Lyrid meteor shower akin?
The Lyrid Meteor Shower transpires during the latter part of April, when celestial bodies traverse particles emitted by Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher.
“Compared to the relatively still atmosphere, these objects are travelling at an extremely high rate of speed (approximately 50 km/s),” the Royal Museums Greenwich explained.
Indeed, their descent velocity is such that the air in front of them is unable to dissipate sufficiently, swiftly condensing and heating up.
As a result, the meteor’s surface heats up to 1600°C and emits a brilliant radiance that appears as a fleeting streak of light in the sky.
Despite appearing to originate from the constellation Lyra, from which they derive their name, the Lyrids will be visible throughout the entire sky.
When does Lyrid meteor shower occur?
The Lyrid Meteor Shower has been occurring this year since April 14 and will conclude on April 30.
Nevertheless, its peak will occur this evening.
When is the optimal time to visit?
The early morning of April 23 will be the ideal time to observe the meteor shower, assuming you are able to remain awake.
Royal Museums Greenwich recommended, “Wait until after midnight, when the radiant point in the constellation of Lyra will have risen in the East.”
Delaying one’s departure in the morning will result in a greater ascent of the radiant and a reduced number of obscured meteors beneath the horizon.
The closer you are to sunrise, however, the more brilliant the sky will become; therefore, make appropriate preparations!
Sighting advice for shooting stars
In order to observe the meteor shower, it is critical to locate a secluded location that provides an unobstructed vista of the celestial expanse.
Pack an ample supply of food and stay warm; patience is required.
“Simply fill your field of view with the sky and wait,” advised the Royal Museums Greenwich.
“Lying on the ground is an excellent way to see as much as possible; a blanket is not required but is strongly advised.”
While reclining in deckchairs, one can observe the sky in an even more comfortable manner.
Additionally, despite the fact that summer is approaching quickly, remember to bundle up warm!
What shall I do if I miss it?
The good news for those who missed the Lyrids is that another shower will occur within the next few days.
The Eta Aquariids persist until May 28th, having begun on April 19th.
Nonetheless, the peak will occur on May 6, so be certain to record this in your calendar.
