Lyrid meteor shower peaks tonight, best viewing after 10:30 p.m.
The Lyrids reach peak activity tonight across the Northern Hemisphere, with up to 15 meteors per hour visible after 10:30 p.m. before moonrise, offering a prime chance for skywatchers.
Key points
- Peak Lyrid activity runs from late evening tonight until early April 2.
- Best viewing begins after 10:30 p.m. local time, improving after midnight.
- A waning crescent moon rises a few hours after midnight, so the brightest meteors appear before moonrise.
- Find a dark site away from city lights and let eyes adjust 20–30 minutes.
- Meteors can appear anywhere in the sky, not just in the Lyra constellation.
Wondering when to catch the Lyrid meteor shower tonight? The annual Lyrids are peaking between late evening April 21 and the early hours of April 2, offering skywatchers across the Northern Hemisphere a chance to see up to 10–15 meteors per hour under ideal dark-sky conditions For the best view, head outside after 10:30 p.m. local time and look up—no telescope required. The show intensifies after midnight as the radiant in the constellation Lyra rises higher, with the highest rates expected just before dawn
This year, a waning crescent moon rises a few hours after midnight, so the brightest meteors should be visible before moonrise. To maximize your chances, find a spot away from city lights, let your eyes adjust for 20–30 minutes, and scan as much of the sky as possible—not just Lyra, since meteors can appear anywhere
The Lyrids are famous for occasional bright fireballs and persistent glowing trails, making this one of spring’s most anticipated celestial events If clouds or moonlight interfere, don’t worry—the meteor shower continues through April 2, though peak activity is brief
Set your alarm, grab a blanket, and look up tonight—the Lyrids won’t return until next April!
Your questions, answered
When is the best time to watch the Lyrid meteor shower tonight?
The optimal viewing window starts after 10:30 p.m. local time and continues through the early morning hours before the moon rises.
How many meteors can be seen during the Lyrid peak?
Under ideal dark‑sky conditions, observers can see up to 10–15 meteors per hour.
Will the moon affect visibility of the Lyrids tonight?
A waning crescent moon rises a few hours after midnight, so the brightest meteors should be visible before moonrise.
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