The Lyrid Meteor Shower is back for its annual celestial performance, and April 2025’s display promises plenty of night-sky magic. Known for its long history and reliable streaks of light, the Lyrids are a springtime favorite — and this year, conditions are shaping up for a solid show.
Here’s everything you need to know about when, where, and how to catch the Lyrids in 2025.
What Is the Lyrid Meteor Shower?
The Lyrids are one of the oldest recorded meteor showers, with sightings dating back over 2,700 years. They occur when Earth crosses the debris trail left by Comet Thatcher (C/1861 G1), a comet that orbits the Sun once every 415 years.
As the tiny bits of comet dust slam into our atmosphere at high speeds, they burn up and create the bright streaks we call “shooting stars.” While the Lyrids aren’t the flashiest shower of the year, they offer a steady 10 to 20 meteors per hour at peak — and on rare occasions, they’ve produced outbursts of up to 100 meteors per hour.
When to Watch the Lyrids in 2025
The Lyrids are active from April 15 to April 29, but the peak viewing window is late on April 22 into the early hours of April 23.
The best time to watch is between midnight and dawn, when the sky is darkest and the meteors are most visible.
This year, the Moon will be in its waning gibbous phase, which means it could add some brightness to the sky — but it won’t spoil the show completely. Pro tip: Head out after moonset or position yourself somewhere the Moon is partially blocked by trees or buildings for the best view.
Where to Watch — No Telescope Needed
You don’t need a telescope or fancy gear to enjoy the Lyrids — just find a dark, open sky, away from city lights. A comfy chair or blanket, warm clothes, and a midnight snack don’t hurt either.
Try to give your eyes about 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness, and avoid looking at your phone screen while stargazing — night vision is key for spotting those subtle streaks.
