The Northern Lights lit up skies across Ireland several times last year, and if you missed them, tonight could offer another chance.
Also known as the aurora borealis, this breathtaking natural display is common in the Arctic, but here in Ireland, sightings are rare.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there's a possibility it could light up our night sky tonight.
This is due to a fast-moving coronal mass ejection (CME) that left the sun late on Saturday and was expected to reach Earth between late Monday and early Tuesday, potentially enhancing geomagnetic activity and making the aurora visible further south than usual - provided skies are dark and clear.
Stargazers in the UK reported Northern Lights sightings last night across northeast Scotland, northern England and the Midlands. The Met Office explained: "A fast-moving coronal mass ejection (CME) left the Sun late on Saturday night, 30th August, and is forecast to arrive at Earth either late on Monday, 1st September, or early on Tuesday, 2nd September.
"This event is expected to enhance geomagnetic activity, creating conditions that could allow the aurora borealis, or northern lights, to be visible further south than usual, provided skies are sufficiently dark and clear.
"Looking ahead, the potential for aurora sightings may continue on Tuesday night into Wednesday, 3rd September, but these are more likely to be confined to northern parts of the UK. By Wednesday night no significant solar activity is currently expected, and the likelihood of further aurora sightings diminishes accordingly."
NOAA has issued a rare G2-level geomagnetic storm warning for this event. Geomagnetic storms are rated on a scale from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme), and while they increase the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights, they can also affect communications, GPS, power grids and even space craft and satellite navigation.
Tracker
To find out the best time and place to see the Northern Lights in Ireland tonight, check out the real-time aurora tracker on the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's website HERE.
Tips on viewing the Northern Lights
Viewing the aurora depends on a number of factors.
Seek dark, clear skies: To optimise your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, head away from light pollution. Look for remote locations with minimal artificial light, such as rural areas, coastal spots or elevated viewpoints. Clear skies are essential for visibility, so monitor weather forecasts and choose nights with low cloud cover.
Timing is key: While the Northern Lights can be spotted throughout the year in Ireland, the best viewing times coincide with periods of heightened solar activity. Keep an eye on solar wind data and aim to view the aurora during the hours surrounding midnight when geomagnetic activity tends to peak.
Be patient: Patience is key when hunting for the Northern Lights. Even during periods of increased activity, sightings are not guaranteed. Plan multiple viewing attempts over several nights to increase your chances of success.
Equip yourself: Prepare for extended outdoor stints by dressing warmly in multiple layers and donning waterproof clothing. Bring along essentials such as a flashlight with red light mode (to preserve night vision), snacks, water and a fully charged phone for safety. Consider bringing a camera with manual settings to capture the aurora.
Stay flexible: Flexibility is crucial when chasing the Northern Lights. Be prepared to travel to different locations based on real-time updates. Sometimes the most unexpected places can give the most unforgettable auroral experiences.
Embrace the experience: While capturing the Northern Lights on camera is undoubtedly rewarding, remember to immerse yourself fully in the moment. Witnessing this natural marvel firsthand is a rare privilege, so take time to appreciate its splendor with your own eyes.
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