The night sky will soon be illuminated by a spectacular meteor shower, the Lyrids, reaching its peak on Monday night. According to astrophysicist Peter Laursen from the Cosmic Dawn Center, between 15 and 20 shooting stars can be expected per hour, weather permitting. The Lyrids, one of the oldest known meteor showers, originate from the comet Thatcher and have been a regular feature of April’s night sky for many years.
“It is always a fantastic experience to observe the Lyrids, but it requires clear weather,” explains Peter Laursen. He adds that cloud cover can be a significant hindrance for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the bright shooting stars. Despite the possibility of clouds, experts and astronomy enthusiasts across the country encourage people to look up at the sky on Monday night. It is a unique opportunity to witness one of nature’s own fireworks displays, and a clear night will provide the best view of this celestial show.
For those planning to observe the Lyrids, it is recommended to find a dark spot far away from the city’s light pollution. A reclining chair and a warm cup of tea can also make the experience more enjoyable in the late hours of the night. Remember to dress warmly and give your eyes time to adjust to the darkness for the best visual experience.