The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, could light up the skies for stargazers across parts of the UK and potentially some regions of the US this week, thanks to significant solar activity expected soon.
The Met Office, the UK's national weather service, has indicated the prospect of visibility on January 1 and 2. The phenomena were last witnessed multiple times over the past year, generating excitement among enthusiasts hoping for another remarkable light show as the new year begins.
According to the Met Office, "A coronal mass ejection (CME) arrival is expected on January 1, with Minor to Moderate storms likely and even a slight chance of Strong storms." This uptick in solar activity has prompted calls for optimism among those hoping to catch a glimpse of the spectacular lights.
Weather experts at AuroraWatch UK have echoed similar sentiments, issuing alerts stating the auroras are 'likely' tonight. They noted, "If the skies are kind, from 6 PM tonight through to 3 AM tomorrow, we may have strong opportunities to see the Northern Lights, particularly around 9 PM. Nevertheless, cloud cover could pose challenges across many areas."
The conditions are ripe for viewing because the recent coronal mass ejections from the sun have created enhanced geomagnetic conditions here on Earth. When charged particles emitted by the sun collide with gases high up in the atmosphere, they result in the vivid displays of light, which are primarily visible near the magnetic poles.
According to the Met Office's forecast, these geomagnetic conditions might continue, offering glimpses of the aurora across northern Scotland, and possibly southern Scotland and Northern Ireland depending on weather conditions. Following this peak activity, the geomagnetic intensity is expected to decline, but not before perhaps offering some awe-inspiring views to those fortunate enough to be located in favorable viewing spots.
"We are currently near the peak of the 11-year solar activity solar minimum, with high solar activity giving us increased chances tosee the Northern Lights. The current peak is expected to last until mid-2025," the Royal Astronomical Society has reported. Interestingly, many experts have noted the increasing frequency of these occurrences could indicate we're entering another phase of enhanced visibility.
To improve the chances of spotting the aurora, stargazers are advised to seek dark locations away from artificial lights—looking toward the northern horizon is recommended. Views may be clearer with the aid of camera lenses as opposed to the naked eye.
For those who wish to keep up-to-date with Northern Lights forecasts and alerts, downloading the AuroraWatch UK app can provide timely notifications about potential sightings, alerting users when conditions are suitable for viewing the aurora.
So, as the thrilling possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights draws near, enthusiasts and casual viewers alike are bracing for the celestial display, all thanks to recent solar activity and the approach of CME-related geomagnetic storms.