Bright object was seen flying over Kyiv: Lyrids are active during this period

Late in the evening of April 19, a bright object was observed crossing the night sky over Kyiv; the annual Lyrids meteor shower is ongoing at this time.

Videos of the flyby were shared by local Telegram channels.

The reactions of eyewitnesses included both admiration and surprise, as well as assumptions about a possible missile threat.

What are the Lyrids?

According to NASA, in the second half of April, the Earth passes through a stream of particles left by Comet C/1861 Thatcher, which forms the Lyrid meteor shower. These meteors usually do not form long luminous trails, but can give short bright flashes when entering the atmosphere.

The Lyrid activity period lasts from April 14 to 30. The largest number of meteors in the sky over Kyiv is expected on the night of April 22, when the radiant in the constellation Lyra rises highest above the horizon.

Version with a rocket launch

Suggestions also appeared on social networks about the connection of the flyby with the launch of the New Glenn rocket of the American company Blue Origin. During this launch, the payload was taken to the wrong orbit, the first stage returned to Earth, and the second burned up in the atmosphere.

Let us remind you that in April, Ukrainians can expect a number of bright astronomical phenomena - from the full Moon to a meteor shower and even a possible "parade of planets."