Friday, 10 January 2014

Southern Britain to see northern lights tonight


Scientists are optimistic that the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, has been visible in southern Britain.

The natural light display, which usually takes place in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, may have been seen in the early hours and also tonight.



Joe Kunches, of The Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) in Colardo, told Sky News: "The geomagnetic storm that drives the aurora structure south is beginning right now.

"We’re not sure how strong the storm will be but if it follows predictions there’s a good chance of seeing it southern Britain."

The SWPC predicted that the displays measured on what is called the KP Index could rise from a reading of one, which makes it visible in northern Scandinavia, to a reading of seven, visible in southern Wales and parts of southern England.

An eruption from the sun two days ago caused a cloud of electrically charged gas to move towards earth, fuelling the rare event.

The phenomenon triggers a geomagnetic storm, increasing the chances of viewing the aurora.


Culled from Sky News

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