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A 2,700-year-old meteor shower returns tomorrow night. The Lyrid meteor shower — one of the oldest recorded in human history — reaches its peak on the night of April 21 into the early morning hours of April 22. The first known observation dates back to 687 B.C.E., when Chinese astronomers recorded meteors “falling like rain.” Each year, Earth plows through a trail of dusty debris left by Comet Thatcher. These tiny particles streak into our atmosphere at tremendous speeds, vaporizing in brilliant flashes of light. This year’s viewing conditions are excellent. A slim waxing crescent Moon (only about 27% illuminated) will set early, delivering dark skies ideal for watching in the pre-dawn hours. Under good conditions, expect 10 to 20 meteors per hour. The Lyrids are known for occasional surprise outbursts that can briefly boost the rate even higher. To catch the show, face northeast after 9 or 10 p.m. local time, where the bright star Vega rises in the constellation Lyra. The radiant climbs higher as the night progresses, giving you better odds after midnight. For the best view, get away from city lights, give your eyes 15 to 20 minutes to adjust, and lie back so you can take in as much of the sky as possible.