Lyrid meteor showers visible worldwide, including Myanmar, until 29 Apr
THE Lyrid Meteor Showers, a celestial event occurring in the Myanmar New Year sky, will be visible across almost the entire world, including Myanmar, until 29 April, according to the Myanmar Astronomy & Science Enthusiasts Society (MASES).
This phenomenon can be observed starting from 15 April. A meteor showers occurs when the Earth passes through a trail of debris and rocky particles left behind by comets orbiting the Sun. The Lyrids are named after the Lyra constellation, the point from which the meteors appear to radiate. This annual event is visible to skywatchers globally.
The debris causing this showers comes from the Thatcher Comet. It was discovered in 1861 by an amateur astronomer named AE Thatcher, and the comet was named in his honour.
To view the meteor showers, observers should look toward the northeast at an altitude of approximately 30°. Its brightest star is Vega, which is located about 25 light-years away from Earth.
As the heavy light of cities makes it difficult to see, it is recommended to find a spot with minimal light. This year’s peak occurs shortly before the First Quarter Moon (the 8th waxing day), and as the moon will be only about 30 per cent bright, moonlight interference will be low, making for good viewing conditions. — MT/ZN
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