Charlotte is in for a treat this weekend as both the Pink Moon and blue sparkling Lyrid meteor shower light up our night sky.
The first official full moon of spring, known as the Pink Moon, will rise on Saturday evening, glowing orange as it ascends above the eastern horizon around 8:23 pm, just after sunset.
The Pink Moon name comes from Phlox Subulata, a wildflower with vibrant pink petals that traditionally blooms this time of year, according to the Farmer’s Almanac.
To see the most detail and brightness of the upcoming Pink Moon, NASA recommends finding a clear eastern horizon just after sunset. Urban light pollution may obscure the view, so darker locations outside of city limits will offer the best experience.
Meteor Showers Up Next
For those craving even more cosmic action, the Lyrid meteor shower begins April 17 and is expected to peak between April 21 and 22. While generally producing 10 to 20 meteors per hour, Lyrids are famous for occasionally producing dazzling “bolts of blue.”
Shortly after the Lyrids, the Aquariid meteor shower will kick off April 19, peaking between May 5 and 6. Though this shower favors viewers in the Southern Hemisphere, Carolinians may still catch a few meteors if skies are clear.
Whether you’re admiring the full moon this weekend or chasing shooting stars later this month, April offers a stellar lineup for skywatchers in the Queen City.
