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Lyrid Meteor Shower Underway, Eta Aquariids and New Puppids Shower to Follow

The Lyrids peak April 21–22 with favorable moonlight conditions, while the Eta Aquariids ramp up for their May 5–6 maximum; a new Puppids shower adds to spring's celestial events.

A meteor of the Lyrids in the sky is seen on April 22, 2020 in Schermbeck, Germany.
Image
(Image for representation) Skywatchers may struggle to view the Lyrid meteor shower due to storms and cloud cover across the eastern U.S., with clearer skies expected in the West and Midwest.
Meteor shower in front of Milky Way falling over jagged hills

Overview

  • The Lyrid meteor shower, active from April 17–26, will peak on the night of April 21–22, offering up to 15–20 meteors per hour under a 40% illuminated waning crescent moon.
  • The Eta Aquariids, originating from Halley’s Comet, begin around April 20 and will peak overnight on May 5–6 with an expected rate of up to 50 meteors per hour.
  • The Lyrids, which stem from Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, are known for occasional fireballs and historical outbursts, though none are currently predicted this year.
  • Observers in the Southern Hemisphere will have optimal visibility for the Eta Aquariids, while Northern Hemisphere viewers may see fewer meteors, including Earthgrazers.
  • A newly identified 'March Puppids' shower, confirmed by the Global Meteor Network, highlights ongoing discoveries in meteor science.