The UK’s night sky is set to light up tonight as the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights will be visible in areas as far south as Kent and Cornwall. While these natural wonders are typically best seen in areas closer to the Arctic, such as Iceland and Scandinavia, Scotland is the only part of the UK that usually has the privilege of experiencing them.
However, tonight a “coronal hole high-speed stream” will be combined with a “fast coronal mass ejection”, allowing the Lights to be visible across the country. To catch a glimpse, find a dark open space high off the ground, such as a hill, and head to northern areas of England with good, dark, and clear nights being the best.
The Aurora is created by atoms and molecules in our atmosphere colliding with particles from the Sun, creating wavy patterns in the Earth’s magnetic field with different colors from different gases.
The lowest area of the Aurora is normally around 80 miles from Earth while the top could be hundreds of miles above Earth. Share any photos you take using #LoveUKWeather to be in with a chance of being featured later.
Understanding the Phenomenon of Northern Lights
Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, is a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. This collision results in beautiful and awe-inspiring lights that dance across the night sky. Although the Northern Lights are commonly associated with countries such as Norway, Finland, and Sweden, they can also be seen in the UK.
What Causes Northern Lights to Appear in the UK?
The appearance of Northern Lights in the UK is not a common occurrence, but it can happen during periods of intense solar activity. When solar flares release charged particles into space, they can sometimes be directed toward the Earth’s magnetic field. These charged particles interact with the Earth’s atmosphere and create the beautiful light display that we know as the Northern Lights.
When Can You See Northern Lights in the UK?
The best time to see the Northern Lights in the UK is during the winter months when the nights are longer and darker. Although sightings can happen at any time during the winter months, the most active period for Northern Lights in the UK is between October and March.
Where Can You See Northern Lights in the UK?
To see the Northern Lights in the UK, you need to find a location with minimal light pollution and clear skies. The best places to see the Northern Lights in the UK are Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the north of England. Popular locations include the Isle of Skye, the Scottish Highlands, and the Northumberland National Park.
How to Capture the Best Northern Lights Photos?
Capturing the beauty of the Northern Lights on camera can be a challenge, but with the right equipment and techniques, it is possible. To capture the best photos, you will need a camera with manual controls, a tripod, and a wide-angle lens. Set your camera to a high ISO, a wide aperture, and a slow shutter speed to capture the movement of the lights.
