The main attraction of April's astronomical events is the Lyrid meteor shower, which reaches its maximum on the night of the 22nd and 23rd. Unfortunately, this year it coincides with an almost full moon, which will make visibility very difficult. Even so, taking into account that the rain was quite intense, we were able to enjoy some of them calmly. In any case, there is another great protagonist in the astronomical events of this April. A total solar eclipse can only be seen in the United States, but it is already causing much discussion around the world.
In this article we are going to tell you what are the most important astronomical events of April 2024 and their characteristics.
Great North American Eclipse
The total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, will only be visible from countries such as Mexico, the United States and Canada, making it the main attraction among all the astronomical events this month.
Not surprisingly, particularly in the context of Mexico, where a complete solar eclipse had not been observed for 33 years, until July 11, 1991. This occurred at a time when technological capabilities were limited and there were only a few media outlets available to broadcast the entire event. Mexico is looking forward to the arrival of numerous people from different corners of the planet for the next eclipse, which will undoubtedly contribute to the growth of national tourism. In the city of Mazatlán alone, it is estimated that nearly 2 million tourists will descend on its shores.
To ensure a completely safe experience, it is recommended to follow the suggestions of using authorized viewers or filters. Reliable links are provided on Ruta Eclipse's various social media platforms to obtain these essential tools in different locations in Mexico.
It is expected to affect the behavior of birds and could even be linked to an increase in the number of fatal traffic accidents. Most likely, this will be the most important event of the month, but we cannot leave aside the conjunctions that will be there, as well as another meteor shower less famous than the Lyrids.
It is equally important to remember the importance of maintaining adequate hydration and resting in shaded areas to prevent heat stroke, dizziness and general discomfort. Never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. Use special glasses designed specifically for viewing solar eclipses. These glasses must comply with ISO 12312-2 and be certified for safe solar observation. Regular sunglasses do not offer enough protection for viewing a solar eclipse. Don't rely on them to protect your eyes.
Remember that if you are using telescopes, binoculars or other optical devices to observe the eclipse, make sure they have adequate solar filters to avoid damaging your eyes.
Saturn and Mars conjunction
Early in the morning, the celestial phenomenon of red planet very close to the Lord of the Rings and a waning Moon, illuminated at only 7%, will adorn our skies. This impressive conjunction, with just 2,5 degrees of separation, will be visible without the help of any equipment, although the use of binoculars is recommended for a better viewing experience.
Observing the conjunction will present a challenge for those in the northern hemisphere due to the horizon and dawn light. However, in the southern hemisphere residents will have a favorable advantage. On Wednesday, April 10, there will be a conjunction between Saturn and Mars.
Maximum Brightness of Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks
On Sunday the 21st we will once again have the opportunity to witness the impressive celestial phenomenon of comet 12P/Pons-Brooks. As the sun rises, The comet will approach just 31 degrees from our viewing position, allowing us to marvel at its impressive proximity. This remarkable event can be observed with the naked eye, and for a more detailed experience, binoculars or even short-range telescopes can be used. Prepare for the comet's maximum brightness on this extraordinary day.
According to current calculations, experts estimate that the comet will reach its maximum luminosity at the end of this month. The most hopeful projections suggest that it will reach a brightness of magnitude 4, making it visible to the naked eye in places not affected by light pollution.
The Lyrid meteor shower
It occurs when the Earth passes through the remains left by comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, during its orbit around the Sun. This comet has an orbital period of approximately 415 years.
The Lyrids receive their name because their radiant, that is, The point from which the meteors seem to come is in the constellation of Lyra. This radiant is located near the star Vega, one of the brightest in the night sky.
Lyrid meteors are known for being bright and fast, with an average speed of about 49 miles per second. They are also known for producing persistent contrails and luminous streaks in the sky that can last several seconds.
To observe the Lyrids, you do not need specialized astronomical equipment, just a dark place away from light pollution, as well as patience to let your eyes adapt to the darkness. It is advisable to observe in the opposite direction to the radiant to maximize the number of visible meteors.
This meteorite event is observed every year between April 16 and 25, peaking around April 22 or 23. Under ideal conditions of darkness and clear skies, up to 15 to 20 meteors can be observed per hour during this period. However, in exceptional years, rates of up to 100 meteors per hour have been recorded.
Due to the convergence of a Moon illuminated at 98% and at the peak of this year's meteor shower, most of the meteors will unfortunately go unnoticed. However, people residing in rural regions with favorable weather conditions can anticipate the pleasure of witnessing an average of 7 to 10 meteors every hour.
I hope that with this information you can learn more about the astronomical events of April 2024 and their characteristics.