KATHMANDU: Sky enthusiasts across the country would be witnessing the Lyrid meteor shower tonight.

The sparkling meteor shower, which was active since April 16, would reach its peak at midnight today.

“At least 15 to 20 meteors would be seen per hour if the sky is clear,” said Suresh Bhattarai, Chairperson of Nepal Astronomical Society (NASO).

The dust particles from Thatcher comet come under friction as they enter the earth’s atmosphere giving the skygazers a magnificent view to gawk up at the sky.

The Thatcher comet leaves its dust particles while revolving around the sun that spreads to millions of kilometres. The comet takes 415 years to revolve around the sun.

Weekend Tip: Make plans to get outside & catch the Lyrid meteors, which peak early Sunday morning! Known for their fast & bright meteors, the Lyrids are best viewed before dawn & away from city lights. Get more viewing tips: https://t.co/5qQt2bLAzf pic.twitter.com/braycNMY0c

— NASA (@NASA) April 21, 2018

“The meteor shower will be visible after 1:00 am. The skygazers can enjoy the celestial event till moments before sunrise,” he said adding, “the phenomenon will start from 11:30 pm but it might not be visible due to moonlight and light pollution.“

“The visibility will be great from a little dark place where the light pollution is comparatively less,” informed Bhattarai. “The meteor shower can be observed through naked eyes.”

“In fact, all meteor showers are meant to be seen through naked eyes as telescopes and binoculars give it a narrow view. Even the amateur photographers can try their hand in capturing this celestial event,” he stated.

The meteor shower will last till April 25.

The Lyrid meteor showers got its name from the Lyra constellation (as it appears from Lyra constellation) and have been known as one of the oldest meteor showers in the history.