When and How to Watch the Lyrid Meteor Shower in Michigan

There is nothing more peaceful than grabbing a lawn chair and sitting out under the stars.

But over the next few nights, that peaceful moment could turn into something pretty awesome as the Lyrid meteor shower moves over Michigan.

When Is the Lyrid Meteor Shower in Michigan

The Lyrid meteor shower runs from April 17 through April 26, with the peak hitting late April 21 into early April 22. That’s the night you’ll have the best chance to see the most activity.

See Also: This Michigan Park Lets You Hunt for 400 Million-Year-Old Fossils

What Time to Watch the Lyrid Meteor Shower in Michigan

According to NASA, your best bet is after midnight through sunrise. That’s when the sky is darkest, and you’ll have the best shot to actually catch something. Earlier in the night, you might see a few, but this is one of those late-night or early morning deals if you want it to be worth it.

How Many Meteors Can You See During the Lyrid Meteor Shower?

On an average year, you’ll see about 10 to 20 meteors per hour at peak if you’ve got nice dark skies. Some nights might be a little slower depending on conditions, but here’s what makes this one fun…every once in a while, one will rip across the sky way brighter than the rest, and those are the ones you remember.

Where to Look to See the Lyrid Meteor Shower

They come from the constellation Lyra near the bright star Vega…but let’s be real, most of us have no idea where that is (myself included). The good news is, you don’t even need to find it. Just look up at the darkest, widest part of the sky, and you’ll have a better shot anyway.

Tips for Watching the Meteor Shower in Michigan

Get away from city lights if you can, even if it’s just a short drive. Light pollution will absolutely kill your view. Give your eyes about 20 to 30 minutes to adjust, stay off your phone, and bring a chair or blanket. And yeah…dress warm. It’s still April in Michigan.

Just be in the moment. All it takes is one bright streak across the sky to make it worth it.