About Lyrid Meteor Shower Peak
The Lyrids peak around April 22 each year, ending the months-long "meteor drought" after the Quadrantids. Expect 15–20 meteors per hour under dark skies, with occasional bright fireballs — and rare surprise outbursts of up to 100, last seen in 1982. The countdown above tracks the next peak.
The Lyrids are the oldest meteor shower in recorded history — Chinese chronicles describe "stars falling like rain" from them in 687 BC. The parent is comet Thatcher, on a 415-year orbit; its dust radiates from near brilliant Vega in the constellation Lyra, rising in the northeast through April evenings.
Upcoming dates
| 2027 | Thursday, April 22, 2027next |
| 2028 | Saturday, April 22, 2028 |
| 2029 | Sunday, April 22, 2029 |
| 2030 | Monday, April 22, 2030 |
| 2031 | Tuesday, April 22, 2031 |
FAQ
When do the Lyrids peak?
Around April 22–23 every year — the countdown above targets the next peak night.
How many meteors will I see?
Typically 15–20 per hour under dark skies, with occasional unpredictable outbursts of much more.
How old is the Lyrid shower?
Records go back 2,700 years — Chinese observers noted Lyrid "rain" in 687 BC, the oldest meteor shower record known.