April 2025 brings exciting astronomical events that you won’t want to miss! From the micro pink moon to the Lyrid meteor shower, here are the details about the key astronomical events to look out for in April 2025.
| Astronomical Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Micro Pink Moon | April 13 |
| Mercury at Greatest Elongation West | April 21 |
| Lyrid Meteor Shower | April 22-23 |
Micro Pink Moon
The month begins with the Micro Pink Moon, a full moon that occurs on April 13. This event is named after the pink moss phlox, an early spring wildflower that blooms in North America, according to the farmer’s almanac. The term “micro” refers to the moon’s position at its farthest point from Earth, known as apogee, making it appear smaller and less radiant compared to a supermoon. Despite its name, the moon does not turn pink; it will still be a beautiful sight in the evening sky.
Mercury at Greatest Elongation West
On April 21, Mercury will reach its greatest elongation westward, marking a rare opportunity to observe this elusive planet. This event occurs when Mercury is at its most distant point from the Sun in the dawn sky, making it visible just before sunrise. For stargazers, this is a chance to catch Mercury low on the eastern horizon, requiring an early morning observation session.
Lyrid Meteor Shower
One of the highlights of April is the Lyrid meteor shower, which peaks on the nights of April 22-23. This ancient meteor shower is known for its spectacular display of shooting stars. Although the moon will be about 40% full during this period (Moon phase calculator), potentially hindering optimal viewing, the best time to observe the Lyrids may be just after sunset when the moon is still low in the sky.
The Lyrid meteor shower is one of the oldest recorded, offering a thrilling experience for those who venture out to witness it. You can add the Lyrids and many other meteor showers to your calendar by referencing the meteor shower calendar.