Skywatchers across the Northern Hemisphere are in for a treat as the annual Lyrid meteor shower reaches its peak on the night of April 21 into the early hours of April 22, 2025. Known for its fast, bright meteors and occasional fireballs, the Lyrids are one of the oldest known meteor showers, with records dating back over 2,600 years.
The Lyrids originate from debris left behind by Comet Thatcher, a comet that orbits the sun once every 415 years. While the comet itself won’t return until around the year 2283, its trail of dust and debris continues to provide a dazzling display for Earth-bound observers every spring.
Best Time to Watch
The Lyrids are expected to peak around 16:00 UTC on April 22. For those in the U.S., this means the best time to view will be late evening on April 21 through the early morning hours of April 22, before the waning crescent moon rises. The radiant point of the shower lies near the bright star Vega in the constellation Lyra, which will rise in the northeast before midnight and be highest in the sky at dawn.
What to Expect
Under ideal dark-sky conditions, viewers can expect to see 10 to 15 meteors per hour. However, the Lyrids are known for unexpected outbursts, with past peaks producing as many as 100 meteors per hour. These meteors are also capable of leaving behind glowing trails called persistent trains, which can linger in the sky for several seconds.
While the moon will be nearing its last quarter phase, its light is not expected to significantly interfere with visibility if viewing is done before moonrise or from a spot where the moon is blocked by trees, hills, or buildings.
Viewing Tips
- Find a dark, open area away from city lights.
- Allow your eyes to adjust to the dark for at least 30 minutes.
- Look generally toward the northeast, though meteors may appear in all parts of the sky.
- Bring warm clothes, a reclining chair or blanket, and patience.
Southern Hemisphere Observers
The Lyrids are best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere due to the high location of their radiant in the northern sky. However, observers in the Southern Hemisphere may still catch a few meteors, particularly if they have a clear view of the northeastern horizon.
A Celestial Connection
Although Comet Thatcher is now far from Earth—nearly 110 astronomical units away—it continues to shape the Lyrids each year. Every 60 years or so, the Lyrids have a history of producing unusually high numbers of meteors due to planetary influences reshaping the comet’s debris stream. The next predicted outburst is expected in 2042.
So mark your calendars and don’t miss the chance to catch one of spring’s most reliable and awe-inspiring meteor showers.
