Star-gazers, space-lovers, and anybody who is still bitter about the fact that they were pretty much the only person in the capital who didn’t manage to see the Northern Lights illuminating London’s skies last year (not that I’m speaking from experience, or anything), listen up. Aurora Borealis is set to, yet again, grace the skies of the UK tonight (November 12), and here’s how Londoners could catch a gorgeous glimpse.
Why will the Northern Lights be visible in the UK?
Well, folks – we actually have a disturbance in the Earth’s magnetic field to thank for the potential phenomenon. The Sun is going through a rather active phase at the moment. It’s experiencing a number of eruptions (known as Coronal Mass Ejections) which are sending solar particles towards the Earth. It’s when these particles interact with the Earth’s atmosphere that the dazzling display of lights is created.
When will the Northern Lights be visible?
The Northern Lights are expected to be visible from the UK all night tonight. Whilst they’ll probably be strongest before midnight, it’s difficult to predict the exact timings due to the strong geomagnetic storm that’s been occurring. Of course, the further north of the country you are, the better chance you have of feasting your eyes on aurora borealis. But all is not lost for us Londoners.
How to get the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights from London
To maximise your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Londonhead to an unobstructed open space, with minimal light pollution (the darker, the better). Parks with panoramic views are probably your best bet. Last year, the lights were spotted from the likes of Primrose Hill, Alexandra Palace and Hyde Park. Although once your eyes are adjusted, the Northern Lights could be visible to the naked eye, they often appear brighter through a camera lens.
So, grab your camera, wrap up warm, and good luck.
