Lyrid Meteor Shower to Illuminate Hungarian Skies Post-Easter
The Lyrid meteor shower is set to return in the second half of April, with peak viewing hours expected in the early hours of Monday, April 22nd. Skywatchers are in for a treat as the Lyrids can reach a zenithal hourly rate (ZHR) of 18, with surprise bursts often boosting the meteor count significantly. Under optimal conditions, viewers could see as many as 90 meteors per hour this year. To catch the show, it’s best to find a spot away from light pollution and keep a patient eye on the sky.
Originating from the Lyra constellation, the Lyrid meteors are linked to Comet C/1861 G1 (Thatcher), a rare visitor to the inner solar system with an orbital period of 417 years. Earth passes through the trail of debris left behind by the comet, creating the beautiful meteor shower. The Lyrids are one of the oldest recorded meteor showers in history, with Chinese records dating back to 687 BC describing a night filled with falling stars.
This year’s spectacle will be even more breathtaking with Venus shining at its brightest on the morning of April 22nd, just before 5 AM. Don’t miss this historic event and be sure to find a dark spot to witness the stunning celestial display.
