Here's when the 2020 Lyrid meteor shower is visible from the UK, and how to watch it

Monday, 20th April 2020, 10:32 am
Updated Monday, 20th April 2020, 10:33 am

Stargazers in April are in for a treat when the Lyrids meteor shower rolls into Earth’s skies for its annual display.


Here's everything you need to know about it:

What are the Lyrids?





This happens roughly every 60 years, and while it won't be the case in 2020, observers could still be treated to some ‘Lyrid fireballs’ - brighter meteors that can even cast shadows for a split second and leave behind a trail of glowing ionized gas.

How to see them


Weather plays a big part, and with April skies often clouded over, spotting the meteors might be easier said than done, and those living in an area with minimal light pollution will have increased chances of spotting a fireball.

Those living in built-up areas would normally be advised to travel to less populated spaces if they really want to see the shower, but as the coronavirus pandemic rolls on and social distancing measures remain in place, this is not something anybody can justifiably do this year.

If you're able to venture out into your garden to spot the show, wrapping up in warm clothes is recommended, and you should allow up to 20 minutes for your eyes to fully adjust to the night sky.

There will be an added advantage to stargazers this year, with the peak of the shower lining up with a new moon, meaning minimal light pollution from our planet's only natural satellite.

When to see them

The Lyrid meteor shower takes place between 16 and 25 April, but will peak - be at their most dramatic - on the evening of 22 April.



How ‘spectacular’ will it be?



No such outburst is predicted for 2020, but it is a hard thing to pinpoint, so you never know.