Eta Aquarids meteor shower arrives in early May from Halley's Comet
Eta Aquarids meteor shower expected in early May from Halley's Comet debris.
Event / Science
Lyrid Meteor Shower 2026
Annual Lyrid meteor shower peaks in April 2026 with optimal viewing conditions. The shower originates from comet Thatcher debris and is one of the oldest recorded meteor showers with documented observations spanning over 2,500 years. Expected 10-20 shooting stars per hour visible globally, with best visibility in the Northern Hemisphere. Eta Aquarids meteor shower from Halley's Comet debris expected to follow in early May.
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2026-08-18 to 2026-11-15 · UTC publication dates
Coverage begins 19 Apr, 03:36 UTC
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What happened
Lyrid meteor shower originates from debris of comet Thatcher
The Lyrid meteor shower consists of debris left behind by comet Thatcher. Earth passes through these grain particles annually around the same time, while the actual comet is only visible once every 415 years. The Lyrids are one of the oldest recorded meteor showers with documented sightings dating back over 2,500 years.
Lyrid meteor shower peaks with 10-20 shooting stars per hour visible
The Lyrid meteor shower is peaking Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, with skywatchers able to see 10 to 20 shooting stars per hour across the spring sky according to NASA. The display is visible globally but with best views in the Northern Hemisphere. A dim crescent moon is providing favorable conditions by setting before the peak activity begins.
Eta Aquarids meteor shower expected in early May from Halley's Comet debris
The next major meteor shower, the Eta Aquarids, is expected in early May. This shower originates from debris left by Halley's Comet and will follow the Lyrid display.
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Lyrid Meteor Shower Peaks With 10-20 Shooting Stars Per Hour
Lyrid meteor shower peaks with 10-20 visible shooting stars per hour from comet Thatcher debris.