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The Lyrids meteor shower is active through April 30, but it will likely peak tonight through early tomorrow morning. What is a meteor shower? It is a collection of rock-and-ice debris left behind by a comet that begins to burn once it enters Earth’s atmosphere. This specific Lyrids shower comes from the Comet Thatcher, which circles the sun every 415 years or so. It’s also one of the oldest-recorded showers, with sightings going back to 687 BC China.
So, how can you see it tonight from the Washington region? We reached out to members of the National Capital Astronomers for their tips.