April 2025 brings one of the most anticipated skywatching events of the season as the Lyrid meteor shower returns to light up the night sky. Peaking on the night of April 22 and into the early hours of April 23, the Lyrids are expected to produce up to 20 meteors per hour under ideal dark sky conditions. This annual meteor shower is among the oldest ever recorded, with sightings going back over 2,600 years. As Earth passes through the debris trail left behind by Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, tiny fragments burn up in our atmosphere, creating streaks of light that can appear suddenly and unpredictably. Unlike some of the more powerful showers like the Perseids, the Lyrids are known for their sudden bursts of activity and occasional bright fireballs that leave glowing trails across the sky. This year’s peak comes just a few days after the full moon on April 12, meaning the moonlight won’t interfere much with viewing conditions by the time of the shower’s climax. That’s great news for obser...
April 2025 is shaping up to be a spectacular month for skywatchers, with a series of stunning celestial events visible across much of the world. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just someone who loves looking up at the stars, this month offers something magical almost every week. One of the early highlights arrives on April 12, when the full moon will pass close to Spica, the brightest star in the constellation Virgo. This conjunction is a gorgeous sight, as Spica’s icy blue glow contrasts against the brilliant silvery moon. The pairing will be visible to the naked eye in the evening sky and offers a great opportunity for both casual viewing and astrophotography. Mid-April will bring the peak of the Lyrid meteor shower, which is active from April 16 to 25 and expected to reach its peak on the night of April 22. The Lyrids are known for their fast, bright meteors and occasional fireballs. This year’s peak comes just a few days after the full moon, so darker skies should help i...