How and When to Watch the Lyrid Meteor Shower in Canada (2025)

The Lyrid meteor shower is one of the oldest and most exciting celestial events, and it’s here once again! Canadians across the country will have the chance to witness this annual spectacle from April 17 to April 22, 2025, when Earth passes through debris from the ancient comet C/1861 G1 (Thatcher).

Best Viewing Time and Conditions in Canada

The peak of the Lyrid meteor shower will take place on the night of April 21-22, 2025. On this night, sky-watchers can expect to see up to 20 meteors per hour in ideal conditions. However, the light from the waning crescent moon may make it a bit more difficult to spot the dimmer meteors. For the best experience, find a location away from city lights, preferably in rural or remote areas where light pollution is minimal.

In Canada, the ideal time to view the Lyrids is between 10 p.m. local time and 4:30 a.m. on the night of April 21-22. Whether you’re in Ontario, British Columbia, or anywhere else across the country, clear skies and a dark location are key to getting the best view of the meteor shower.

Tips for Viewing the Lyrids in Canada

Dr. Bill Cooke, from NASA’s Meteoroid Environment Office, recommends lying down outside in a place with minimal light pollution to get the best view. “Give your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness, and avoid looking at your phone,” he says. Bright screens from devices can ruin your night vision, making it harder to see the meteors.

What to Expect from the Lyrid Meteor Shower

The Lyrid meteor shower is known for producing “fireballs”—exceptionally bright meteors that are visible for miles. These fireballs are particularly spectacular during the Lyrids due to the speed at which comet debris enters Earth’s atmosphere. They can be as bright as the planet Venus, making them a highlight of the event.

Viewing from the Northern Hemisphere

As the Lyrids radiate from the Lyra constellation, which is visible in the Northern Hemisphere, Canadians have the perfect vantage point to watch this cosmic show. The radiant point for the Lyrids is in the northeastern sky, but meteors can appear anywhere across the sky. The more northern your location, the better your view.

Outbursts and Rare Events

The Lyrids are typically a moderate meteor shower, but they sometimes experience outbursts, where the meteor rate exceeds the normal peak. These outbursts are unpredictable, but the next one is expected in 2042. For now, expect the usual peak of about 20 meteors per hour, though conditions like moonlight and cloud cover can affect visibility.

If you miss the Lyrids, don’t worry! Canada will have other meteor showers to look forward to in 2025, including the Perseids in August and the Geminids in December.

Other Meteor Showers to Look for in 2025

If you miss the peak of the Lyrid shower, several more exciting meteor showers are coming up this year:

Eta Aquariids: May 5-6
Perseids: August 12-13
Geminids: December 12-13

Whether you’re in the vibrant cities of Toronto or Vancouver, or in a more remote spot like the Yukon, be sure to get outside and enjoy the beauty of Canada’s night skies in 2025!

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Best Viewing Time and Conditions in Canada