Lyrid Meteor Shower to Streak Across the Sky Next Week

The Lyrid meteor shower as seen from the International Space Station in April 2012. (Photo: NASA)

According to NASA, the Lyrids are well-known for their bright and fast meteors that leave glowing dust trails that can be visible for several seconds, so staying up for the event will likely be rewarding.

The Lyrids are caused by the particles left behind by Comet Thatcher when it comes around the sun. Every year, when Earth goes through the comet’s debris trail, the particles collide with our atmosphere and disintegrate for our viewing pleasure.

To watch the Lyrids, find a place with little light pollution and simply look up. But you don’t need a dark-sky reserve to see them; if the sky is clear, you should be able to observe them from your backyard. Just remember to take your time — it takes about 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the dark and see the meteors.