April 2026 Astrophotography

Summary

Astrophotographers can anticipate a busy April 2026 with celestial events including the full Pink Moon on April 1st, followed by conjunctions of the crescent moon with Mercury and Mars. A potential sungrazing comet, Comet MAPS, may be visible in the western twilight around April 6th. The period from April 10th to 20th provides a dark sky window ideal for imaging galaxies. The month concludes with the Lyrid meteor shower peaking on April 21st-22nd, offering opportunities for capturing meteors under dark skies.

Key points

• April 2026 features a full Pink Moon on the 1st and a potential sungrazing comet (MAPS) around the 6th.
• A dark sky window for galaxy imaging occurs from April 10th to 20th.
• The Lyrid meteor shower peaks April 21st-22nd, with favorable dark conditions.
• Conjunctions with Venus, Mercury, and Mars are also scheduled throughout the month.