The Northern Lights could be visible over Ireland tonight as solar activity increases.
The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights(Image: PA)
The Northern Lights lit up skies across Ireland several times over the past 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 is a chance the aurora could be visible over Ireland tonight.
This is due to incoming coronal mass ejections (CMEs) – massive bursts of plasma and magnetic fields released from the Sun. These high speed solar events can trigger geomagnetic storms when they reach Earth, creating the Northern Lights and, in some cases, disrupting satellites or power systems.
The UK’s Met Office, which provides space weather forecasts, confirmed: “Keep an eye out as there is a chance of seeing the northern lights over the next couple of nights Sightings are most likely across Scotland where skies are clear but perhaps into northern England too.”
It added: “Multiple Coronal Mass Ejections may arrive during 20 – 21 March, plus a solar wind enhancement is expected to connect to Earth during 21 March. Periods of enhanced auroral visibility are likely over the following nights, especially Friday and Saturday nights. Aurora may be visible at times, where skies are clear, across Scotland and perhaps northern England and similar latitudes.”
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.
Current forecasts suggest heightened auroral activity over Ireland throughout the night, meaning there could be opportunities to spot the display if weather conditions are right.
Tips on viewing the Northern Lights
Viewing the aurora depends on a number of factors.
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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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