Fans of breathtaking celestial displays are in for a treat tonight, as a spectacular aurora borealis is almost guaranteed to light up the skies across Poland. According to Karol Wójcicki, an astronomy popularizer, the aurora should become visible shortly after dusk on April 16, 2025, and conditions are favorable enough that even those in the southern parts of the country will have the chance to witness this stunning natural phenomenon.
Wójcicki took to social media to share his excitement, stating, "If these conditions hold until dusk, we will be able to observe the aurora even from the southern parts of the country. So pack your backpacks, charge your batteries, and head out of town, preferably north! It’s going to be an incredible night!" His enthusiasm reflects the anticipation surrounding tonight's event, especially given the recent geomagnetic activity.
Tonight's astronomical spectacle is set against the backdrop of a strong geomagnetic storm classified as G3, which has been ongoing since the evening of April 15. Wójcicki noted that parameters indicate the storm could escalate to G4, heightening the chances of a vibrant aurora. The parameter Bz has remained stable at negative values between -15 to -20 nT, which is a good sign for aurora visibility.
For those in Warsaw, the astronomical night begins at 9:48 PM and lasts until 3:21 AM, providing a generous 5.5 hours of opportunity to catch the display. The best viewing time is expected to be between 10:00 PM and midnight when the sky will be at its darkest, making it easier to spot the aurora.
Wójcicki emphasized the importance of finding a dark location away from urban light pollution for optimal viewing. He advised, "The further north you go, the better the conditions for observation. Try to get out of urban areas and find a spot under a relatively dark sky." He encouraged everyone to take advantage of the clear weather forecast for the evening, which is expected to remain cloudless across much of the country, creating perfect conditions for skywatching.
In addition to the excitement about the aurora, the weather is predicted to be mild, with temperatures not expected to drop below 13-16 degrees Celsius in most areas. This pleasant weather adds to the allure of tonight's viewing experience, as enthusiasts can comfortably enjoy the night sky.
Wójcicki also provided tips for capturing the aurora in photographs. He recommended using a camera with manual settings, a low aperture (such as f/2.8), and an exposure time of 5-10 seconds. Increasing the ISO sensitivity to 1600 or higher is advisable, and using a tripod is essential to avoid blurriness. He cautioned against using flash or automatic white balance, suggesting instead to set the balance to daylight for the best results.
As excitement builds across Poland, many are eager to witness the aurora, which has become increasingly visible in recent months. Previous sightings occurred in January and in the autumn of last year, making tonight's event particularly special. Wójcicki remarked, "This may be the best aurora we’ve had since January 2025, or even since autumn 2024."
For those who may have missed earlier opportunities due to cloud cover, tonight presents a rare chance to see this magnificent natural display. The aurora borealis is often described as a distant wonder of nature, but with the right conditions, it can be experienced up close and in vivid detail.
As the night approaches, Wójcicki’s call to action resonates with many: "If you’re still sitting at home wondering whether it’s worth heading out, stop thinking and just GO! We haven’t had such good conditions for observing the aurora in months!" His enthusiasm captures the spirit of adventure that accompanies such celestial events.
As night falls, observers are encouraged to seek locations with an unobstructed view of the northern horizon, where the aurora is expected to dance most intensely. The spectacle can manifest in a range of colors, from classic greens and reds to purples and pinks, depending on the intensity of the geomagnetic storm.
As the moon will rise only after midnight, its light is unlikely to interfere with the aurora viewing experience, allowing for an uninterrupted display. The anticipation is palpable, and many are preparing for what could be an unforgettable night of stargazing.
With the weather cooperating and the geomagnetic storm in full swing, tonight's aurora borealis is set to be a memorable event for skywatchers across Poland. Whether you’re an avid astronomer or simply someone looking for a beautiful night under the stars, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Grab your warm jackets, cameras, and enthusiasm, and venture out to witness one of nature’s most stunning displays!
