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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Katie Williams

Northern Lights could be visible in Edinburgh tonight - how to see them

The Northern Lights could be spotted in Edinburgh starting from tonight.

The aurora borealis is expected to be visible across Scotland and northern England this evening as the experts have predicted residents can spots them on Sunday, April 23 and Monday, April 24.

Aurora Watch UK and the Met Office have both said there is a good chance of seeing the natural phenomenon this evening but warned that cloudy conditions could get in the way.

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However, clearer skies on Monday evening means there will be an even greater chance for stargazers to get a good view of the colourful display, as the Daily Record reports.

Taking to Twitter, the Met Office shared a video explained they are expected to be visible between 7pm on Sunday and 5am on Monday, reappearing at 8pm on Monday evening.

The Met Office wrote: "In Scotland and northern England you may be able to spot the #Aurora Borealis tonight, though there will be too much cloud for most Clearer skies tomorrow night mean there will be a greater chance for some good views."

Aurora Watch UK also sent out a 'red alert' and said: "It is likely that Aurora will be visible by eye and camera from anywhere in the UK."

The incredible spectacle has graced skies across Edinburgh earlier this month with locals spotting them on Portobello, over Granton Harbour and across the Pentlands.

How to spot the Northern Lights

For those hoping to see the Northern Lights, you will have a better chance of seeing them the further north you are. It's best to travel to a more northerly part of the country if possible.

Along with that, it is best to stay away from places that are heavily affected by light pollution. Last month, many spotted them at Portobello Beach and Edinburgh's waterfront. It is also worth trying to find a dark secluded spot - for instance on an elevated hill or mountain.

Weather conditions should also need to be just right to get the optimal view - clear and cloud free.

What causes the aurora borealis?

The Northern Lights are an atmospheric phenomenon that's caused when solar particles from the sun collide with Earth's atmosphere.

These energised particles combine with nitrogen and oxygen molecules, which send them into an excited state. Once these charged particles relax, they release light - producing the aurora borealis causing undulating waves of green, purple, and red lights across the sky.

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