Astronomical events in April 2026
April 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most complete months of the year for astronomical observation. The sky in the northern hemisphere will offer an exceptional combination of phenomena: from the popular Pink Moon, to a planetary alignment, as well as meteor showers and comets potentially visible to the naked eye.
In this article, we tell you what to see, when to observe it, and how to get the most out of it with your astronomical equipment.
Lunar phases: key to planning your observations
The phases of the Moon directly affect the quality of the night sky:
🌕 Full Moon (Pink Moon): April 2
🌗 Last Quarter: April 10
🌑 New Moon: April 17
🌓 First Quarter: April 24
🔭 Recommendation:
The period from April 14 to 20, around the New Moon, will be the best time to observe deep-sky objects such as galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.
April 18: alignment of 3 planets
One of the most outstanding events of the month will be the planetary parade:
- Mercury
- Mars
- Saturn
These three planets will appear grouped in the east forming a triangle before sunrise.
🔭 Observation Tip:
- Mars and Saturn will be visible to the naked eye.
- For Mercury, you'll need binoculars or a telescope.
- Look for a completely clear eastern horizon.
April Comets: visible without a telescope?
April brings a rare opportunity: up to three observable comets, two of them potentially visible to the naked eye.
☄️C/2026 A1 (MAPS)
- Perihelion: April 4
- Very bright… but unpredictable
- Could disintegrate near the Sun
🌠 C/2025 R3 (PanSTARRS)
- Perihelion: April 19, we recommend observing it around April 5.
- More stable and reliable
- Good candidate for visual observation
🔭 Important: never use optical instruments near the Sun.
April 22: Lyrid meteor shower
The big event for shooting star enthusiasts:
- 📅 Peak: April 22
- 💫 Up to 18 meteors per hour
🔭 Conditions in 2026:
- Little lunar interference → good visibility
- Best from the Northern Hemisphere
👉 Ideal for naked-eye observation from dark skies.
Visible planets in April 2026
During this month, practically all planets will be observable:
- Venus → bright at sunset
- Jupiter → dominant in the night sky
- Mercury, Mars, and Saturn → visible at dawn
- Uranus and Neptune → require optical instrumentation
🔭 April is an excellent month for both beginners and advanced observers.
Deep-sky objects: galaxy season
April marks the beginning of one of the best times to observe galaxies:
- ⭐ Leo Triplet (M65, M66, NGC 3628)
- 🌌 M83 (Southern Pinwheel Galaxy)
- ✨ M3 (globular cluster)
🔭 With medium-aperture telescopes, it's already possible to appreciate structures and details.
We are passionate about bringing the universe closer to you. If you want to prepare for these events, discover our selection of telescopes and accessories to enjoy the sky like never before.