COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) – Every April, the Earth passes through debris left behind by Comet Thatcher. While we won’t see the comet itself, there’s a chance to view the Lyrid Meteor Shower now until the end of the month.
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This year, astronomers say after midnight and before dawn on Wednesday, April 22nd, the sky will be dark and moonless. This, along with minimal clouds in the forecast for the Midlands during this time, sets us up for prime viewing conditions during the shower’s anticipated peak!
Lyrid meteors radiate from near the bright star Vega which is part of the constellation known as Lyra the Harp. This radiant point will rise above our horizon in the northeast late Tuesday evening before climbing higher in the night sky. Best time to watch is midnight to dawn.
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At its peak and away from city lights, in a dark sky, it’s possible to see as many as 10 to 15 Lyrids per hour. Lyrids are known for their bright meteors and sometimes fireballs.
Good luck!
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