The Lyrids is a medium strength shower that usually produces good rates for three nights centered on the maximum. These meteors also usually lack persistent trains but can produce fireballs. They are best seen from the northern hemisphere where the radiant is high in the sky at dawn. Activity from this shower can be seen… Read More »Lyrids
The Eta Aquariids are a strong shower when viewed from the southern hemisphere. From the equator northward, they usually only produce medium rates of 10–30 per hour just before dawn. Although the shower is active April 19–May 28, activity is best around the peak on May 4–5. For more information on meteor showers, visit the… Read More »Eta Aquariids
A total lunar eclipse will take place on the morning of May 26. Unfortunately, the moon will set for viewers in the eastern US before totality is reached. The farther west people are in the US, the more of the eclipse they will be able to see, with viewers on the West Coast being able… Read More »Lunar Eclipse
The Alpha Capricornids are active from July 3–August 15 with a maximum centered on July 28. This shower is not very strong and rarely produces in excess of five shower members per hour. What is notable about this shower is the number of bright fireballs produced during its activity period. For more information on meteor… Read More »Alpha Capricornids
The radiant point for the Draconids is the head of the dragon in the constellation Draco. The peak is on the evening of October 8. Unlike most meteor showers, this one is best viewed in the early evening. This year, a waxing crescent moon will set during dusk, so it won't obscure the shower. The… Read More »Draconid Meteor Shower