Why April in Maine is the Best Month for Stargazing

We’re all ready to say goodbye to the snow, welcome the flowers, and finally feel days that don’t require three layers.

April is that turning point we’ve been waiting for. But while everything’s starting to wake up during the day, something pretty incredible is happening at night, too. 

Quietly, April is one of the best times of year to look up, according to WGME.

Seriously. If you’ve been needing a reason to grab the kids, step outside, and get a little fresh air after dark, this is it. The night sky is putting on a surprisingly packed show this month and it’s worth it. 

Why Is April One of the Best Times for Stargazing in Maine?

As per the report, let’s begin with the glorious Pink Moon happening on April 1st and no, this is not an April Fools joke, we’ve all been misled before but I promise you, this will be big, bright, and worth the view. The name comes from spring wildflowers.  

Just a couple days later, Mercury will enter the chat on April 3rd. So you’ll have to keep an eye out to the eastern sky for that, because this will be your chance to see one of the hardest planets to spot.

It will be sitting higher in the sky just before the sun rises.

So, if you are already an early riser, holding your coffee, take a peak outside.  

The next moon will arrive on April 17th and this is when the moon, sun and Earth all line up so that the side of the moon facing us isn’t lit at all, almost making it disappear from the night sky. And on that same evening, if you have a telescope, you may see the brightest comet of the year.

And get this, that Comet is 44 million miles away.

Then, old onto your hat because next is the real showstopper, the Lyrid meteor shower.

This will take place later in the month and according to the report, we’re talking shooting stars streaking across the sky. What is so interesting about this showers is that you won't see anther for over 200 years. 

As per the article, these meteors come from leftover debris shed by Comet Thatcher, a long-period comet first spotted in the 1800s and takes over 400 years to make a full trip around the sun. 

Read More: PHOTOS: Check Out The Remarkable Lunar Eclipse in Maine

And the best part is that spring nights in Maine are finally getting comfortable, no more freezing outside just to enjoy something cool in the sky.  

So this month in Maine will be worth your attention. Sometimes the best shows are up, up and away.