They’re not drones, they’re not aliens, they’re not even demons. The starry phenomena over Illinois skies in the coming weeks are entirely feats of nature.
A range of celestial happenings is on tap in the coming weeks, including a fiery meteor shower, passing comets, unusually bright planets and more.
Here’s what you need to know in Illinois.
Planning For Planets
Some of the planets will be extra bright this month, scientists say, with a special show coming on Friday, April 3.
“Mercury will be at its most visible all year. On this date, the planet will be at its greatest elongation, or its furthest distance from the sun, as we see it from Earth, making it easier to see.”
Need a viewing tip? NASA suggests looking east before the Sun begins to rise. Mercury will hang low on the horizon, just above Mars.
In Illinois, sunrise on Friday will be at 6:29 a.m.
Meteors And Comets
NASA also suggests watching for these stellar curiosities:
April 17: Best chance to see Comet C/2025 R3April 21 to 22: Lyrid meteor shower peakApril 27: Comet C/2025 R3 makes closest approach to Earth
The Lyric meteor shower is one of the oldest on record, having been observed and noted for 2,700 years. It’s expected to peak overnight from April 21 to 22, but can be seen other nights.
What’s special about the Lyrid meteors? Observers may note 100 soaring through the sky at once, which could produce a bright flash or fireball.
“The Lyrids are best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere during the dark hours (after moonset and before dawn),” NASA advises. “Find an area well away from city lights or street lights. Come prepared with a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair.”
The shower can appear any time from dusk to dawn.
The comets are coming as well.
NASA notes, “April 17th might be your best chance to see the Comet C/2025 R3, which some think could be the brightest comet of the year. This comet will make its closest approach to Earth on April 27th, coming within 44 million miles of our planet.”
With reporting from Patch correspondent Caren Lissner.