Overview
- The Lyrids reach their peak Wednesday, April 22, around 10 p.m., with ideal dark sites expected to see about 18 meteors per hour according to the International Meteor Organization.
- Best visibility in Central Europe comes after the 36% moon sets shortly after 2 a.m., leaving a darker sky until astronomical dawn near 4 a.m.
- Seek a dark rural site and give your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust; in NRW, Nationalpark Eifel is highlighted as a strong choice away from city lights.
- The shower comes from dust shed by Comet Thatcher, and the tiny grains hit Earth’s atmosphere at roughly 49 kilometers per second, creating bright streaks.
- Activity runs through April 30, and the Eta-Aquariids begin on April 19, which could add extra meteors to late-April viewing.