Spring 2026 Lyrid meteor shower promises a bright predawn display

The Lyrid meteor shower runs April 16–25, 2026, peaking the night of April 21–22 as Earth passes Thatcher’s dust trail. Observers could see up to about 18 meteors per hour in dark skies after moonset, with fast, short-trails and occasional bright fireballs. The radiant sits near Vega in Lyra, so look east before dawn for the best view; a ~40% illuminated Moon will wash out fainter meteors. For photography, long exposures (the Canon EOS R7 is highlighted for beginners) are recommended, and you should give your eyes 20–30 minutes to adapt to the dark and avoid staring at the radiant.