As the Lyrid meteor shower graces the night skies this week, stargazers worldwide are gearing up for a celestial spectacle. From April 15 to April 29 each year, dozens of shooting stars streak through the heavens, painting a mesmerizing picture against the backdrop of the cosmos.
While the meteor shower reached its peak activity from Sunday night to Monday morning, skywatchers can still catch a glimpse of the Lyrids for the remainder of the week. However, Tuesday night promises a unique astronomical event as the Lyrids coincide with the April full moon, fondly referred to as the “pink moon,” scheduled to rise at 7:49 p.m. ET.
Although this supermoon won’t appear pink, its brilliance will illuminate the night sky, presenting a stunning sight. Yet, witnessing it alongside a meteor shower adds an extra layer of cosmic wonder. However, the moon’s luminosity might pose a challenge for spotting shooting stars, although a few may still be visible.
To maximize your chances of witnessing this celestial display, timing is crucial. For observers in the Northern Hemisphere, the optimal window to view the Lyrids is during the early morning hours after the moon sets and before sunrise, according to NASA. Setting your alarm before dawn on Wednesday, around 5:45 a.m. ET, provides the best opportunity to catch the meteor shower without the moon’s interference.
Alternatively, if you prefer to observe the Lyrids while the “pink moon” graces the sky on Tuesday night, ensure you’re in a location with minimal light pollution. City and street lights can diminish visibility, so seek out a dark spot away from urban areas for optimal viewing conditions.
Once you’ve found your ideal stargazing spot, lie back with your feet facing east and gaze upwards, allowing for an unobstructed view of the night sky. It may take around 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness before the meteors begin to appear.
While the brightness of the “pink” supermoon may limit the number of shooting stars visible, it will undoubtedly offer its own celestial spectacle. So, whether you’re counting shooting stars or admiring the moon’s radiance, take a moment to marvel at the wonders of the universe.
