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(meteorobs) 1997 Lyrid Meteor Shower
1997 Lyrid Meteor Shower
The first major shower of the season will soon be here...the Lyrids. Though
listed as a major shower, I usually think of them as being an active minor
shower. This shower peaks on April 21/22 with the 1997 max occuring at 3hrs
UT...favoring Western Europe. The ZHR for this shower is 15. But don't expect
anything near that this year. The peak is also on the same night of April's
full moon. Under these conditions, from a rural location, you will be doing
good to see 4/hour...unless unusual activity occurs. Observing under a full
moon is not recommended if you're trying to record useful meteor data. But
for the peak nite of major showers it is accepted. Under full moon conditions
and at my latitude (32deg North), I find it best to observe the Lyrids facing
Northeast and looking up at about a 45 to 55 degree angle. This will be my
darkest part of sky. Due to the moon, I won't be starting my meteor watch
until after midnight. The radiant should be somewhat low in the sky by then
anyhow...which is midway between Vega and the Keystone in Hercules. The
Lyrids are associated with comet Thatcher 1861 I and have produced several
bursts of activity in the past. The most recent occurred in 1982 when rates
nearly reached 100 meters per hour. Those who try photographing the Lyrids
are usually not very successful. This is due to their low numbers and
occasional fireball. Despite the full moon, you can still work a camera. Any
successes won't be pretty and are for meteor measurements only. For a 35mm
camera, I recommend a 50mm lens set at f/2.8. Use a 400 ASA black and white
film such as HP-5 or Tri-X. Point the camera in the same northeasterly
direction that you're observing and up at a 50 degree angle. If you're able
to get some of the Big Dipper framed, this will help if you are successful.
Make exposures no longer than 15 minutes and preferably near 10. Longer
exposures will produce "bullet proof" negatives. You won't get too many
stars...but enough for measurements. I don't recommend color film....too
expensive and nothing gained under marginal conditions. The Lyrids are
visible from the Southern Hemisphere, but at an even more reduced rate.
Factual Info:
Duration: April 16-25; Max: April 21/22 at 3hr UT; ZHR: 15; Vel: 48
km/s(Fast); Population Index: 2.9; Radiant Diameter: 5 degrees; Radiant: RA
18h04m, Dec +34; Train Production: near 17%; Three Letter Shower Code: LYR
George Zay
32 deg North
116 deg West
Descanso, Calif