Meteor Shower

Location of Staunton River State Park in Virginia

Where

Staunton River State Park, 1170 Staunton Trail, Scottsburg, VA 24589.
Observation Field

When

April 16, 2023 12:00 a.m. - April 25, 2023 12:00 a.m.

The Lyrids is an average meteor shower, usually producing about 20 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by dust particles left behind by comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, which was discovered in 1861. The shower runs annually from April 16-25. It peaks this year on the night of the night of the 22nd and morning of the 23rd.

These meteors can sometimes produce bright dust trails that last for several seconds. The thin crescent moon will set early in the evening leaving dark skies for what should be an excellent show. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Lyra, but can appear anywhere in the sky.

There will not be a ranger present for this self-guided program.

photo of stars at night

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 434-572-4623
Email Address: StauntonRiver@dcr.virginia.gov