Lyrid Meteor Shower to Peak on April 22, 2026
The annual Lyrid meteor shower is set to peak on April 22, 2026, offering skywatchers the opportunity to observe up to 18 meteors per hour under favorable viewing conditions.
The Lyrid meteor shower, one of the oldest known meteor showers, is expected to peak on the night of April 21-22, 2026. This annual event occurs as Earth passes through debris left by Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, which orbits the sun approximately every 415 years.
During the peak, observers can anticipate seeing up to 18 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. The meteors are known for their brightness and can occasionally produce fireballs.
Viewing conditions are favorable this year, as the waxing crescent moon will set before midnight, leaving the sky dark for optimal meteor observation. The best time to view the Lyrids is after midnight and before dawn on April 22, when the radiant point near the bright star Vega in the constellation Lyra is highest in the sky.
To maximize the viewing experience, find a location away from city lights, allow your eyes 15 to 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness, and dress appropriately for the weather. No special equipment is necessary; the meteors can be seen with the naked eye.
The Lyrid meteor shower has been observed for over 2,700 years, with records dating back to 687 B.C. in China. Following the Lyrids, the Eta Aquarid meteor shower is expected to peak on May 5-6, 2026.