April brings warmer spring nights, making it the perfect time for skywatchers to step outside and marvel at the celestial wonders. This month offers a spectacular lineup of astronomical events, including the dazzling Super Pink Moon, the return of meteor showers, and a breathtaking planetary alignment.
Super Pink Moon: April 12-13
The first full moon of astronomical spring will illuminate the night sky during the second weekend of April. Commonly called the Pink Moon, this full moon is named after the wild ground phlox, an early blooming flower that blankets parts of North America in pink and purple hues.
While the moon itself won’t turn pink, it will appear larger and brighter due to its proximity to Earth, making it a Supermoon. Other traditional names for April’s full moon include the Frog Moon, Sugar Maker Moon, and Breaking Ice Moon.
For more details on this phenomenon, visit NASA’s official site.
Partial Solar Eclipse on March 29: What to Expect and How to Watch Safely
Lyrid Meteor Shower: April 21-22
After three months, shooting stars will once again grace the night sky with the Lyrid meteor shower. Peaking from the night of Monday, April 21, into the early hours of Tuesday, April 22, this meteor shower is expected to produce up to 20 meteors per hour under optimal conditions.
