In a state like Maine there are plenty of places to go and be alone. That’s because we have so many wonderful rural towns with nature just about everywhere. While peace and quiet is a great benefit, one of the other benefits is low light pollution. This means plenty of star gazing opportunities! Conditions get even better when the moon is dark. That’s why this year’s Lyrid meteor shower is shaping up to be a must-see!
If you love the night sky you’re going to be one happy camper in mid-April! The next major meteor shower, the Lyrid meteor shower, is set to light up the sky between April 16th and 25th.
mountaintide / Flickr
While every meteor shower is impressive, the Lyrid is notable because it often includes surges of more than 100 meteors in one hour.
rockyraybell / Flickr
Predicting the surges is basically impossible, which is another thing that makes this show so special. It can feel pretty lucky when you see the surge!
roeshad / Flickr
It’s not difficult to spot the shower. Just look for the radiant point which is where the paths of the meteors seem to begin. The Lyrid shower’s radiant point is the bright star Vega which can be found within the Lyra constellation.
blob rana / Flickr
Check out a star map to find the star, or download a night sky app that will help you locate it easily simply by pointing your phone towards the sky.
rockyraybell / Flickr
The best time to see the Lyrid meteor shower is after Vega has risen over the state. In April this happens around 10 p.m. And making things even more impressive is the fact that the moon is dark at this time, meaning conditions should be great. Just cross your fingers for no clouds!
ikewinski / Flickr
Experts say the best time to view the shower will be when the sky is at its darkest in the pre-dawn hours of April 22nd.
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But be sure to practice patience. Meteors do their own thing and you can’t predict when they’ll appear.
roeshad / Flickr
Outside of surges, you can expect to see between 10 and 15 meteors every hour. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks and settle in for something spectacular!
athrasher / Flickr
For more information on the Lyrid meteo shower and the others taking place this year, check out the earthsky.org website.
mountaintide / Flickr
rockyraybell / Flickr
roeshad / Flickr
blob rana / Flickr
ikewinski / Flickr
iahvector / Flickr
athrasher / Flickr
If you love gazing at the night sky, you’ll love doing it on a special hike! This magical nighttime hike in Maine is one that everyone should have on their bucket list.
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Address: Maine, USA
