Lyrid Meteor Shower Peaks This Week

0:00On April 20th, the Lerid Meteor shower is back, dropping fiery streaks across spring skies this week. It's been active since April 16th, but hits peak late Wednesday night, the 22nd, and to early Thursday morning, the 23rd. Look east around 12-1 AM. British summertime on the 23rd, and you'll spot the Radiant Point in the Leric constellation, right by the Bright Star Vega. This shower's got deep roots, first spotted by ancient Skywatchers in 687 BC. Those meteors come from dust in the tail of comet thatcher, discovered back in 1861. For the best show, wait till after midnight when your eyes adjust to the dark, about 20-30 minutes. Northern viewers get prime seats, while Southern Hemisphere folks see it low on the horizon. So step outside tonight, find some dark skies, and let the Lerid's remind us how wild the universe still is.