Two Meteor Showers Are About to Rock the Night Sky!
Get ready to witness a celestial spectacle as not one, but two meteor showers light up the heavens this month.
Skywatchers and stargazers, mark your calendars: the night sky is about to put on a dazzling double feature with the Lyrids and Eta Aquariids meteor showers arriving in quick succession. These back-to-back displays promise shooting stars, bright fireballs, and unforgettable moments—especially if you’re lucky enough to catch them from a dark location.
1. The Lyrids: April’s Annual Light Show
The Lyrid meteor shower, one of the oldest known showers, is set to peak on April 21 and 22 due to debris from Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher.
What sets the Lyrids apart are their bright, fast meteors, some of which leave glowing trails that last for several seconds. They appear to radiate from the constellation Lyra, near the bright star Vega, but you don’t need to pinpoint this to enjoy the show—just lie back and take in the whole sky.
This year, the Moon will be a waxing gibbous, meaning some light pollution is expected. However, the brightest meteors will still be visible to the naked eye, especially in the early morning hours when the Moon begins to set.
The Lyrid meteor shower, one of the oldest known meteor showers (observed for over 2,700 years), will peak on the night of April 21 into the early hours of April 22. Originating from debris left behind by Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, the Lyrids typically produce 15 to 20 meteors per hour at their peak, though the number can occasionally spike. This shower is renowned for its brilliantly bright meteors, some of which appear as glowing fireballs streaking across the night sky.
2. The Eta Aquariids: A Halley’s Comet Encore
Hot on the heels of the Lyrids comes the Eta Aquariid meteor shower, peaking in the pre-dawn hours of May 5 and 6. The Eta Aquariids are known for their speed and abundance, producing up to 40 meteors per hour in the Southern Hemisphere, and 10–20 per hour in the Northern Hemisphere.
What makes this shower especially notable is its origin: the meteors are fragments of Halley’s Comet—yes, the same comet that appears in Earth’s skies every 76 years. As Earth crosses the comet’s path, its debris burns up in our atmosphere, creating fast, streaking meteors that often leave long, glowing trails.
The Eta Aquariids radiate from the constellation Aquarius, which is positioned in the eastern part of the sky before dawn. Their meteors can appear anywhere across the sky, so once again, the best strategy is to lie back and enjoy the entire sky rather than searching for a specific constellation. This year, the Moon will be a thin crescent, meaning the dark skies will offer optimal viewing conditions with minimal light interference.
Eta Aquariids appear to radiate from the constellation Aquarius, which rises in the east during the early morning hours. This year, the Moon will be a thin crescent during the peak, providing optimal dark-sky conditions for viewing.
Tips for the Best Meteor Watching Experience
Whether you're catching the Lyrids, the Eta Aquariids, or both, here are a few quick tips to make the most of the experience:
Get away from city lights. A rural location or a dark park will offer the best views.
Give your eyes time to adjust. It takes about 20–30 minutes for your eyes to fully adapt to the dark.
Bring a blanket or reclining chair. You’ll be watching the sky for a while—comfort matters!
Look up and be patient. Meteors can appear anywhere in the sky, so there’s no need for binoculars or telescopes.
A Cosmic Reminder
Meteor showers are not just light shows—they’re a cosmic connection to ancient comets and the vastness of our universe. These fleeting moments of brilliance remind us that even the smallest specks of space dust can leave a lasting impression.
So whether you're an amateur astronomer or just looking for a reason to gaze upward, don’t miss the chance to witness two of nature’s most spectacular night-time performances. The sky is calling—make sure you look up.
About the Creator
Md. Saidul Islam Sanjid
Aspiring writer sharing thoughts, stories, and perspectives on the things that matter. From creative insights to real-life reflections—exploring one topic at a time.
Keep reading
More stories from Md. Saidul Islam Sanjid and writers in Earth and other communities.
Doraemon: The Robotic Cat Who Won Everyone's Heart
Doraemon is one of the most loved and iconic cartoon characters in the world. Created by the Japanese manga artists Fujiko F. Fujio, Doraemon is a robotic cat from the 22nd century who travels back in time to help a young boy named Nobita Nobi. With his futuristic gadgets and kind heart, Doraemon has become a symbol of childhood for millions of fans across the globe.
By Md. Saidul Islam Sanjid9 months ago in Writers
Stanislav Kondrashov: The Quiet Power of Policymakers in the Energy Transition
In the unfolding drama of the global energy transition, engineers, entrepreneurs, and environmentalists often take centre stage. Yet, behind the spotlight, it is policymakers who are quietly shaping the script. According to Stanislav Kondrashov, an independent energy analyst and frequent commentator on international energy strategy, the transition is less about technology and more about timing, regulation, and political will.
By Stanislav Kondrashov 4 days ago in Earth
Snow, Rain and Wind Warnings Continue After Storm Goretti Disruption
Severe weather has once again placed large parts of the country on edge, as snow, rain, and strong wind warnings continue in the aftermath of Storm Goretti. While the storm’s most intense phase may have passed, its disruption lingers, leaving transport networks strained, power services under pressure, and communities bracing for further unsettled conditions. Storm Goretti arrived with a powerful combination of heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and wintry conditions in higher and northern regions. The immediate impact was widespread: flooded roads, fallen trees, travel cancellations, and temporary power outages. Now, as emergency crews and local authorities work through the damage, meteorologists are warning that the weather pattern remains unstable, with fresh alerts issued for snow, rain, and wind in the days ahead. What Storm Goretti Left Behind Goretti’s passage was fast but forceful. Torrential rain caused rivers to swell and surface water flooding to develop quickly in low-lying areas. In exposed coastal and upland regions, wind gusts were strong enough to bring down trees and damage infrastructure. Meanwhile, colder air sweeping in behind the storm delivered snow and icy conditions, particularly affecting rural roads and higher elevations. For many commuters, the disruption was immediate and frustrating. Rail services were delayed or suspended due to flooded tracks and debris on lines. Roads became hazardous, with localised closures as emergency teams worked to clear fallen branches and manage flooding. Airports also reported delays, as strong crosswinds and poor visibility complicated operations. Although the storm itself has moved on, its effects are far from over. Ongoing Warnings: Why the Risk Remains High Weather agencies have stressed that the current warnings should be taken seriously. The ground is already saturated from recent rainfall, meaning even moderate additional rain could lead to further flooding. Rivers and drainage systems are under strain, and recovery time is limited before the next weather system arrives. Snow and ice warnings add another layer of concern. Overnight temperatures are expected to dip in several regions, increasing the risk of icy roads and pavements. For drivers, this creates dangerous conditions, especially in areas where gritting resources are stretched after consecutive weather events. Wind warnings also remain in place, particularly along coasts and in elevated areas. While gusts may not reach the peak levels seen during Goretti, even slightly weaker winds can still cause problems when trees and structures have already been weakened. Impact on Communities and Daily Life For local communities, the continuation of weather warnings means disruption becomes a drawn-out experience rather than a short-term event. Schools in some areas have faced temporary closures or delayed openings, especially where travel conditions remain unsafe. Businesses dependent on transport and foot traffic are also feeling the strain, as customers stay home and deliveries are delayed. Rural areas are often hit hardest. Narrow roads, limited public transport alternatives, and longer response times can make even minor weather incidents more serious. Farmers are also concerned about waterlogged fields, livestock safety, and damage to fencing and buildings. In urban centres, the focus has shifted to managing surface water flooding and ensuring public transport can run safely. Councils are urging residents to report blocked drains and avoid unnecessary travel during warning periods. Emergency Services Under Pressure Emergency and utility services continue to operate at high alert. Fire and rescue teams have been responding to flooding incidents, fallen trees, and weather-related accidents. Power companies are working to restore and reinforce electricity supplies, while also preparing for the possibility of new outages if conditions deteriorate again. Local authorities have opened temporary support centres in some regions, particularly for vulnerable residents affected by power cuts or flooding. These efforts highlight the importance of community preparedness, as repeated weather events stretch resources and personnel. The Broader Weather Pattern Meteorologists explain that Storm Goretti is part of a broader pattern of unsettled weather driven by active Atlantic systems. Instead of a single storm followed by calm conditions, the atmosphere is producing a succession of fronts, each bringing its own mix of rain, wind, and temperature changes. This pattern increases uncertainty and makes forecasting more challenging. Small shifts in temperature can mean the difference between rain and snow, while slight changes in wind direction can significantly affect coastal impacts. As a result, weather warnings may be updated frequently, requiring the public to stay informed and flexible. How to Stay Safe During Continued Warnings Authorities are urging people not to become complacent simply because the main storm has passed. Continued vigilance is essential, especially as conditions can change quickly. Key safety advice includes: Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of snow, ice, or strong winds. Check weather updates regularly from official sources. Secure loose items outdoors that could become dangerous in high winds. Be cautious near rivers, coastlines, and flood-prone areas. Look out for neighbours, particularly elderly or vulnerable individuals. Preparation can make a significant difference, especially when weather disruption extends over several days rather than a single event. Looking Ahead While there are signs that conditions may gradually improve later in the week, the immediate outlook remains unsettled. The continuation of snow, rain, and wind warnings after Storm Goretti serves as a reminder of how quickly weather can impact daily life and essential services. For now, recovery and preparedness must go hand in hand. Clearing up after one storm while preparing for the next has become an unfortunate reality for many communities. As climate patterns continue to shift, such sequences of disruptive weather may become more common, making resilience and awareness more important than ever. Storm Goretti may no longer dominate the forecasts, but its legacy lives on in the warnings that remain—and in the determination of communities working through yet another challenging spell of weather.
By Muhammad Hassanabout 14 hours ago in Earth
Day 4 of Quitting
If this is how sobriety feels, maybe it’s better to go through life a little buzzed… this, along with other hits like, I want to kill myself, I wish I was dead, and I’m going to throw myself off a bridge have been the only thoughts on rotation these past few days. I promise myself that if, in a month, I still feel like this (‘this’ meaning despondent, full of rage, and simultaneously numb) I can go back to smoking. Until mid-February though? Nicotine is off the table.
By sleepy drafts4 days ago in Longevity
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.