4 April Space Must-Sees That Aren’t The Eclipse

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The total solar eclipse of April 8 is rightfully getting a lot of buzz — it’s the last total solar eclipse to be visible from the contiguous U.S. until 2044. But the eclipse isn’t the only celestial spectacle that will appear in the sky this April. Here are all of the wonders you’re going to want to look out for this month, other than the eclipse.

1. April 8: Super New Moon

Occurring on the same day as the total solar eclipse, the “super new moon” will appear on April 8.

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S​o what is a super new moon?

A supermoon occurs when a full moon makes its closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit. But keep in mind, this is a super new moon. That means that instead of a full moon, this month’s new moon coincides with the closest point to Earth.

Since you can’t see a new moon, you won’t be able to see how much closer the moon is to Earth. But you will still feel the effects.

The super new moon will cause higher-than-usual tides. Though it depends on location, the height difference of what’s sometimes called a “perigean spring tide” can be significant.

2. April 21: Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks Perihelion

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks is out in space zooming toward the sun. On April 21, the comet will make its closest approach to the sun, known as perihelion. Astronomers think the comet should be visible during the day in the darkened sky of the April 8 eclipse, perhaps even to the naked eye. Keep in mind, if you want to look into the sky during the eclipse, you should wear eye protection.

Comets become less visible as they near the sun, so the weeks between the eclipse and the April 21 perihelion will see good chances of viewing, decreasing as the days pass.

3. April 21-22 Lyrids Meteor Shower Peak

Known for their bright and fast meteors, the Lyrids are an annual meteor shower resulting from Earth passing through the debris left by Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher. It’s one of the oldest known meteor showers, first recorded in 687 B.C. by the Chinese.

According to the American Meteor Society, the Lyrids will peak overnight between April 21 and 22 this year. If you can’t catch them on those nights, don’t worry. The meteor shower is expected to be active between April 15 and 29.

In the Northern Hemisphere, your best chances at viewing are after moonset and before dawn, when the sky is very dark. Be sure to get away from city lights and let your eyes adjust for about 30 minutes before you expect to see anything.

4. April 23: Pink Moon

The full moon of April is traditionally called the “pink moon.” The name symbolizes the sprouting of “moss pink” or creeping phlox — one of the first spring flowers in the eastern U.S.

Despite its name, the moon doesn’t appear pink; the name only refers to the seasonal change. Still, the moon will be spectacular to see. The full moon will last for about three days.

Based in New York, Weather.com reporter Tim Harris is a digital journalist with a broad reporting portfolio that spans environmental science, lifestyle topics and breaking news.