Aurora spotted across the South

Saturday, 11 May 2024 09:36

Aurora by V2 Radio Presenter Neale Bateman in Fepham

The Aurora lit up the night sky across the South on Friday night into the early hours of Saturday morning.

The display is usually only visible in places such as Alaska, Iceland, Finland, and Norway, right at the top of the northern hemisphere. But it’s often seen in the Highlands of Scotland, the Western Isles, and the Orkneys in the northeast.

I watched the Aurora a few years ago on the Isle of Skye, and it was the most profound feeling to watch as wisps of aluminous cloud travelled across the cold, starry night. The bright colours were not visible until I took photos on my 4K Camera. I spent two or more hours looking skyward with my partner, taking pictures and drinking fantastic local ale, all while dodging sheep droppings. We felt pretty emotional afterwards; it feels genuinely magical and unworldly, but you feel so honoured to be able to witness it.

On Friday into Saturday this week, those fortunate enough to be awake were treated to a glimpse of a phenomenon that, for many, is a dream come true, a sight that they may have only imagined in their wildest dreams.

Weather conditions were perfect, and the sunspot group responsible for the display is still very active even now.

We might get another chance to see it tonight; let's cross our fingers and toes, shall we? However, it would be highly unusual for that to happen for a second night in a row.

If you have become interested in Aurora, which is very addictive once you have seen it, there are ways you can increase your chance of seeing it again.

Download the app "AuroraWatch UK" on your mobile device. This will give you real-time alerts.
There are several groups on social media, such as Twitter or X, which are good places to start, so you are given a bit of notice when to look outside.
Go to the darkest sky area you can to view the Aurora. You will see wisps and beams of the Aurora cloud. Take photos, it always looks better on camera than with our little eyes.

If you want to watch the Aurora displays from the comfort of your home online, take a look at these live webcams in Finland later tonight.

Spring cam Live Sodankylä, Finland. North view (youtube.com)

Spring cam Live Levi, Finland. North view (youtube.com)