Earth will experience three coronial mass ejections from the Sun which could result in a dazzling natural light show
The Northern Lights could dazzle the UK’s night sky as a ‘severe’ geomagnetic storm hits Earth. Meteorologists say the Sun is currently going through a period of eruptions – known as coronial mass ejections – which sends solar particles towards our planet.
How these particles interact with the atmosphere is what causes the stunning light displays on show after dark. AuroraWatch UK has issued a red alert meaning the Northern Lights should be visible by eye and from a camera anywhere in the UK.
Current predictions state the best chance to Aurora Borealis will be between 1am and 2am on Thursday morning (November 13). The Met Office said you’ll have the best chance of them further north, but there is still a possibility of a dazzling night glow in London – particularly parts with less light pollution.
The National Oceanographic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that three coronial mass ejections will head from the Sun to Earth from tonight into early tomorrow morning. The agency believes this could result in a strong or extreme geomagnetic storm.
These are not harmful to humans as Earth’s atmosphere protects us from radiation, but they can disrupt satellites or even mobile phones in the most extreme cases.
Tonight the Met Office has forecasted cloud which could make it harder to spot the Aurora, so take a look at our advice below for your best chance.
Tips to see the light show
- Look to the north: Try to figure out which way is north in advance as the Aurora Borealis is drawn towards the poles of the Earth. You may not be able to see the lights directly overhead, but if you look to the North you may see it on the horizon. To help, download a compass app on your phone in advance
- Find somewhere with a clear view: Try to find an area that has no skyscrapers or other tall buildings so that your view is not obscured. Maybe even travel to a quieter area on the outskirts of London if possible to find wide open spaces.
- Get up high: To also help with not having your view obscured, you could have a better chance if you’re on a hill or somewhere high and away from light pollution.
- Stay up as late as you can: You want the sky to be as dark as possible so that you can see the lights. Staying up late helps this since the Auroras are most active in the late evening to early morning hours.
- Use your phone: You can just about see the lights with the naked eye, however cameras can see it better. They can adapt to the wavelengths more than the human eye meaning you’ll be able to appreciate the colours even more.
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