Lyrid Meteor Shower 2026: Peak Viewing Times and Where to See It Best

Heads up, stargazers! One of the most reliable (and oldest) meteor showers of the year is lighting up the night sky, and the Lyrids are peaking soon. Expect shooting stars, bright flashes, and maybe even a few fireballs if the weather cooperates.

This year's Lyrid meteor shower reaches its peak on the night of Wednesday, April 22, 2026, with the predicted peak at 19:15 UTC. Activity runs from approximately April 15 to April 29. And here's some great news for 2026: the Moon will be a waxing crescent (about 27–34% illuminated) that sets after midnight, meaning the main viewing hours will be under beautifully dark skies.

🌧️ Will the Weather Cooperate?

As always, your best bet is to check your local forecast before heading out. Clear skies are the number one requirement for a good meteor shower experience. Wherever you are, find the darkest spot available and keep an eye on cloud cover in the days leading up to April 22.

🔭 What Are the Lyrids?