How to Watch the Lyrid Meteor Shower in Australia
- admin928749
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
At AusNewsLanka, we aim to keep the Australian community informed with timely updates.
If you’re up for a late-night adventure (and maybe a little chilly stargazing), the Lyrid meteor shower is about to hit its peak – and you might just catch a shooting star or two. Or even 20.
What is the Lyrid meteor shower?
The Lyrids are one of the oldest known meteor showers – we’re talking 2700 years of people watching them light up the sky. They happen every April as Earth drifts through the dusty trail left behind by Comet Thatcher (no relation to Margaret – this one’s cosmic)
When those bits of space debris hit our atmosphere at a screaming 47km per second, they burn up and create quick, bright streaks across the sky. Occasionally, you’ll see an extra-bright one called a fireball. Pretty cool, right?
When can I see it?
Tonight and tomorrow night (that’s April 21 and 22) are peak times for us here in Australia. Expect 10 to 20 meteors an hour, but only if the sky cooperates.
Your best bet? Head out in the very early hours of the morning – we’re talking 3am to 5am kind of vibes. Yep, it’s an effort. But hey, stardust doesn’t wait for anyone.
How to get the best view
Here’s the checklist:
Get as far away from city lights as possible. Light pollution is the enemy.
Look north to north-east, just above the horizon.
Give your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the dark – no phones, no flashlights!
Bring a blanket or a comfy chair, dress warm, and just relax and scan the sky.
And yes, make a wish when you see one – it’s basically mandatory
No telescope required – your eyes are all you need.
Miss it? No worries.
If clouds ruin the party or sleep wins the battle, there’s another chance coming up: the Eta Aquarids will peak around May 6 and 7. More shooting stars, more wishes.
So grab a mate, set your alarm, and look up – the universe is showing off again.
More updates to come on AusNewsLanka.
Comentários