Lyrid meteor shower set to be visible across Ireland

Irish star-gazers have a chance to see a very active meteor shower over the next few days.

The Lyrid meteor shower - which is also known as 'the harps' - is caused when the Earth passes through debris left by a passing comet.

We could see up to 20 shooting stars per hour when conditions are right.

Space commentator Leo Enright says the last time this happened was in the years following the famine.

"The last time this comet passed near the Earth was 1861, it is probably not the most auspicious comet in Irish history.

"To add insult to injury, it is named Thatcher.

"If you missed it last night, don't give up because this meteor shower continues for several days.

"As long as there is no clouds, there should be an opportunity to see more shooting stars than a normal night."