Lyrides: A shower of shooting stars to enjoy this week

Also want a big outdoor show for free and without risk? They arrive in time in their luminous garments: Leridas. To impress them, nothing could be simpler, just look up at the sky (and set an alarm early!).

this is Rain falling stars Active since Friday, April 16, 2021 but should peak The night of Thursday 22 to Friday April 23. We explain everything to you so that you can convince yourself.

What are Lyrids?

Sums up Gil Dawidovic, General Secretary of the Association French Astronomical Society. Like a swallow Lyrids return in the spring.

This swarm of stars comes from Comet Thatcher, Named after the American astronaut who discovered it in 1861. “Comets leave dust in their path that is forming Subway. A hail of stars occurs every time the Earth passes through this tunnel, “explains the specialist.

Thus, if Comet Thatcher only passes close to the Sun every 415 years, Lyrides makes its big comeback every year.

Every iota of comet dust is barely greater than cigarette ash. But when they all enter Earth’s atmosphere together, it creates more or less constant flashes of light.

How do we notice them?

No need for a telescope or telescope, Lyrids are Visible to the naked eye. It is clear that everything will depend on the weather. As with any astronomical observation, it is recommended Keep away from any source of light pollution They are generally found in cities or near highways.

Expected peak activity Early in the morning At night from Thursday to Friday. “At the end of the night and at sunrise it is always difficult to see, Secretary General Lasaf warns. But plan a small sleeping bag to keep you warm and above all don’t forget to make a wish!”

With a little skill (and luck), it is even possible to immortalize the moment with a good camera or even a smartphone, by placing it on a tripod.

What are the following heavenly phenomena worth admiring?

Angry “Super Moon Pink” is expected to appear next Monday (We promise, we’ll tell you by then), note in your diary the next shower of stars you’ll love. And even more exciting than Lyrids!

Because even if this rain of stars is always fun to watch, it allows to see From 5 to 20 meteors per hour, Which is not much compared to 60 offenders per hour within TA Aquarides Scheduled for May or at 90 meteors / hour from Perseids, The traditional parade is in July and August.

To get 120 stars GeminiYou will have a sleepless night! But you have time to prepare for them: they only arrive in December.