Northern Lights ‘likely’ to be visible from UK TONIGHT – how to spot it

BRITS might be lucky enough to see the Northern Lights for the second night in a row this evening.

The dazzling display, known as aurora borealis, appeared in the night sky across Britain, Wales and Ireland last night.

AlamyAurora borealis over Sycamore Gap, Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland, England[/caption]

Star gazers in Hertfordshire, Cornwall, Shropshire and North Wales were able to see the spectacle, which is typically only visible in the Earth’s north and south poles.

But occasionally, Brits can be lucky enough to catch a glimpse – such as last night.

A burst of magnetic energy from the sun can sometimes cause auroras to expand and be pushed into lower latitudes, where it can be visible in the UK.

The Met Office said the lights are likely to be seen again on Monday night.

How do I see it?

Firstly, it helps to be in an area with little light pollution.

Rural areas are best for sky gazing.

Auroral displays are most often seen further north, but stronger flares can move south, as spotted by those in Cornwall last night.

Sometimes, aurora can appear white to the human eye, so it can help to take a quick photo on your phone to help reveal the colours.

If you’re planning on photographing the aurora properly, you’ll need a DSLR or bridge camera and ideally a tripod.

Experts have also advised that hopeful watchers braving the cold this evening will not be too disheartened if the aurora look dim at first.

This is because they usually brighten over the course of a few hours.

People should also stay vigilant, as the display can change quickly.

But it’s unpredictability is why the sight is firmly placed on the bucket lists of many.

We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at [email protected]

  Read More