Lyrid meteor shower peaks soon in sky above Washington. Here’s when to watch

One of the oldest known meteor showers will soon be visible in the night sky.

The Lyrid meteor shower falls in April every year.

Here’s how you can see it in Washington state:

What is the Lyrid meteor shower?

First observed in China in 687 BC, the Lyrid meteor shower is the oldest known meteor shower, according to NASA.

In other words, humans have been aware of the phenomenon for more than 2,700 years.

Most meteor showers originate from a larger cosmic body.

The Lyrids originate from comet Thatcher, which orbits the sun every 415.5 years.

The comet leaves a trail of dust and debris along Earth’s orbital path, resulting in the meteor shower.

The bright flashes seen from Earth are the pieces of debris making contact with our atmosphere, according to NASA.

What does the Lyrid meteor shower look like?

The Lyrid meteor shower produces “bright and fast” meteors, according to NASA.

Under good viewing conditions, you can expect to see 10 to 20 shooting stars per hour, NASA said.

Up to 100 meteors per hour are possible during “uncommon surges,” according to EarthSky.

“Lyrids are known for their bright and colorful meteors, sometimes even producing fireballs” that “outshine the planet Venus,” the astronomy website said.

Meteors in the shower appear to originate around the constellation Lyra — hence the name Lyrid.

However, NASA doesn’t recommend focusing too hard on Lyra when looking for the meteors.

According to NASA, you’ll have a better overall experience by watching the sky as a whole, as the streaks will seem longer this way.

When are best times to watch Lyrid meteor shower in 2026?

The Lyrids are active for multiple nights, lasting until Wednesday, April 29, according to EarthSky.

The peak of activity will be around 10 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, to the pre-down hours of Wednesday, April 22, according to NASA.

However, you may still catch glimpses of meteors on other nights.

Online clock Time and Date recommends checking the sky overnight on Wednesday in Washington state.

What are best ways to see shooting stars in Washington state?

The Lyrid meteor shower is visible without any special equipment.

For the best view, stargazers should head to a high elevation spot with little light pollution.

“Lie flat on your back with your feet facing east and look up, taking in as much of the sky as possible,” NASA said. “After about 30 minutes in the dark, your eyes will adapt and you will begin to see meteors.”

This light pollution map shows exactly where you can escape light pollution.

Some parts of Washington state may experience cloudy conditions overnight. Check your local National Weather Service station for a full forecast.