a non-earthly start for Earth Day

[ankh_hpl]

syndicated posted this information last Friday, but I thought I'd save it for a last-minute cosmic treat and/or poem inspiration. 

Very early tomorrow morning (April 22nd), an unusual conjunction of Venus and the  waning crescent moon may be enhanced by the Lyrid meteor shower!    As viewed in some parts of the world, the Moon will pass directly in front of Venus, causing Venus to "vanish."

Read all the details here, and set your alarm -- the Lyrid shower (if it puts in an appearance) is best viewed in the darker predawn hours.   People in Western parts of North America are most likely to see Venus do its disappearing act.