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<\/p>\nThe Northern Lights may be visible across Ireland tonight due to coronal mass ejections, with NOAA forecasts suggesting heightened auroral activity throughout the evening<\/p>\n
The Northern Lights visible over Kylemore in Connemara on September 13(Image: Caitriona Moskovskova)<\/p>\n
The Northern Lights illuminated skies throughout Ireland on multiple occasions over the past year – and if you missed them, tonight might present another opportunity.<\/p>\n
Also referred to as the aurora borealis, this stunning natural phenomenon is typical in the Arctic, but here in Ireland, appearances are uncommon.<\/p>\n
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there is a possibility the aurora could be visible over Ireland tonight.<\/p>\n
This is due to approaching coronal mass ejections (CMEs) – enormous bursts of plasma and magnetic fields expelled from the Sun. These high-speed solar events can trigger geomagnetic storms upon reaching Earth, producing the Northern Lights and, occasionally, interfering with satellites or power systems.<\/p>\n
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.”, reports the Irish Mirror<\/a>.<\/p>\n 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.”<\/p>\n Tracker To discover the optimal time and location for viewing the Northern Lights in Ireland this evening, visit the real-time aurora tracker on the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s website HERE<\/a>.<\/p>\n Present forecasts indicate elevated auroral activity across Ireland during the night, suggesting potential opportunities to witness the spectacle should weather conditions prove favourable.<\/p>\n Tips on viewing the Northern Lights<\/p>\n Observing the aurora relies on several factors.<\/p>\n Seek dark, clear skies: To maximise your prospects of seeing the Northern Lights, travel away from light pollution. Search for isolated locations with little artificial illumination, such as countryside areas, seaside locations or high vantage points. Unobstructed skies are vital for visibility, so check weather predictions and select evenings with minimal cloud coverage.<\/p>\n Timing is key: Whilst the Northern Lights can be observed year-round in Ireland, the prime viewing periods align with phases of increased solar activity. Monitor solar wind information and attempt to view the aurora during the hours either side of midnight when geomagnetic activity typically reaches its height.<\/p>\n Be patient: Patience is essential when searching for the Northern Lights. Even during spells of heightened activity, sightings cannot be assured. Arrange multiple viewing sessions across different nights to boost your likelihood of success. Equip yourself: Get ready for prolonged periods outdoors by dressing warmly in multiple layers and wearing waterproof clothing. Carry essentials such as a torch with red light mode (to maintain night vision), snacks, water and a fully charged mobile for safety. Consider bringing a camera with manual settings to capture the aurora.<\/p>\n Stay flexible: Flexibility is key when pursuing the Northern Lights. Be prepared to travel to various locations based on real-time updates. Sometimes the most unexpected places can provide the most memorable auroral experiences.<\/p>\n Embrace the experience: Whilst photographing the Northern Lights is undoubtedly rewarding, remember to fully immerse yourself in the moment. Experiencing this natural wonder firsthand is a rare privilege, so take time to appreciate its magnificence with your own eyes.<\/p>\n For all the latest breaking news headlines today, visit our website home page<\/a>.<\/p>\n Join Galway Beo’s top stories and breaking news service on WhatsApp.<\/p>\n