Under good weather conditions, about 5 to 6 meteors can be observed per hour.
Under good weather conditions, about 5 to 6 meteors can be observed per hour.
Under good weather conditions, about 5 to 6 meteors can be observed per hour.
WASHINGTON — The Lyrid meteor shower can be seen around Earth Day each year and the event is known for its speedy and bright fireballs.
When the Lyrids peak on Tuesday morning, it will give stargazers the first chance to see shooting stars this spring. Under good weather conditions, about 5 to 6 meteors can be observed per hour.
On Tuesday, the waning crescent moon will be 40% full, meaning a decent level of visibility under clear and dark conditions. Competing sources of light — such as a bright moon or artificial glow — are the main obstacles to a clear view of meteors.
The Lyrids are known to have outbursts, that increase rates to as many as 100 meteors per hour, every 60 years, according to NASA. The next outburst is expected in 2042.
The meteor shower will precede the eta Aquariids, providing back-to-back stargazing events. The eta Aquariids will peak May 5 to May 6. The shower is caused by debris from Halley’s comet.
The Lyrids will peak overnight on Monday, April 21, and into the morning of April 22.
Viewing for the meteor shower will last until April 26.
NASA says viewers can expect up to 15 meteors per hour near the peak, but there may be some interference from the moon’s light.
The space agency says you can begin viewing them after 10:30 p.m. local time until dawn, noting that the best viewing time will come about 5 a.m. local time.
To get a good view, NASA says to “face toughly toward the east, lie down in a safe, dark place away from bright lights and look straight head.” The meteors can appear anywhere in the sky and may leave bright trails seconds after they’ve passed, NASA says.
It’s important to note that your eyes will adjust after about 30 minutes in the dark, allowing you to see the meteors.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.