See a shooting star: Lyrids meteor shower to peak over Switzerland

Stargazers across Switzerland will be given a treat this April, as the Lyrids meteor shower will be visible in the night sky. Depending on the weather, people across the alpine nation will be able to see up to 20 meteors an hour, with the shower peaking between April 21 and 22.

Lyrids meteor shower to peak over Switzerland on April 21

First identified by Chinese astronomers 2.500 years ago, the Lyrids have been a prominent feature of the astronomical calendar for millennia. The meteor shower itself has its origins in the comet Thatcher, which takes 415 years to orbit the sun - it is predicted to be visible from Earth again in the year 2276. 

NASA writes on its website that at its peak, "up to 20 meteors an hour can be seen." However, what makes the Lyrids unique is their potential for “uncommon surges”, which can see up to 100 meteors an hour burn up in the atmosphere, creating a stunning, albeit very rare, spectacle.

How to see the Lyrids shooting stars from Switzerland

The Lyrids will be visible across Swiss cities and cantons from April 14 to 30 but the best time to see them will be late in the evening on April 21 and 22. 

The meteors themselves are expected to radiate near the Lyra constellation, specifically around the Vega star. To get the best view, experts recommend allowing enough time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness - this could take up to 20 minutes! 

To get the best chance of seeing the display, head out to a dark spot, such as away from the city and towards open fields and even up mountains. Fingers crossed that the weather will remain clear and make it a night to remember!