Sternschnuppen spectacle: The lyrids illuminate the night sky!

Sternschnuppen spectacle: The lyrids illuminate the night sky!

Nordhalbkugel, Erde - Austria will experience a fascinating heavenly spectacle in the coming days: The Lyrids, the first large meteor shower of the year, will culminate their peak in the night from April 23 to April 23, 2025. In this period, exactly from 16 to April 25, more than 20 shooting stars per hour can calculate (5min) . In optimal conditions, short -term outbreaks of up to 100 meters per hour, as historians have found, are even possible with the last remarkable outbreak in 1982 (Telepolis) .

The lyrids arise when the earth crosses the orbit of the comet C/1861 G1 (Thatcher). This comet has a round of 415 years and was last visible in 1861. The meteors themselves are part of small dust particles that are made to glow when they enter the atmosphere by friction. It is noteworthy that the lyrids in the constellation lyre (lyra) have their bike, about 8 degrees southwest of the star Wega (hobby-astronomy) .

observation tips

For everyone who wants to see the spectacle live, there are some important tips for optimal observation. At first, no special equipment is required, but the observation location should be low in light and the sky should be clear. It is recommended to get the eyes used to the dark for 15 to 20 minutes to get the best possible view of the shooting stars. In addition, observers should bring warm clothes as well as a ceiling or a comfortable seating (5min) .

If the moon opens as a decreasing sickle on April 22, it will hardly disturb the view of the lyrids, so that the best chances of a successful observation are available. Although the zenital hourly rate (ZHR) of the lyrids can be estimated at around 18 per hour, individual observations are often unpredictable and require patience (Telepolis) .

The secret of the meteors

meteors are fascinating glow symptoms caused by tiny dust particles that enter the upper atmosphere of the earth. These small particles begin to glow through the enormous powers that work when entering the atmosphere. Interestingly, only the larger grains, from about one kilogram, reach the ground and are referred to as meteorites (hobby-astronomy) .

With this information, sky observers can look forward to an exciting meteor-spectacle in the sky. If you see a shooting star, you can also maintain the custom, to express a wish - a tradition that not only makes the magic of the shooting stars scientifically, but also culturally meaningful.