April astronomy outlook: Micromoon and the oldest known meteors

April brings us a micromoon, the best chance to spot Mercury, and the oldest recorded meteor shower still active!

Kicking off April's events is the full moon, known as the Pink Moon, on the 12th. This will also be a micromoon.

Unlike a supermoon, which occurs when our lunar companion is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit, a micromoon occurs at the opposite point, the furthest away it can be.

After this, Mercury is at its easiest to spot, the planet will appear just before sunrise looking east.

The Lyrids peak over the 22nd, into the morning of the 23rd, this is the oldest recorded shower still visible today, first noted in 687 BC.

Finally, a new moon takes place on the 27th, offering clear skies perfect to spot constellations. Check back for more information on these events, and use the WeatherRadar to find a cloudless area to see them!