IT could be possible to see the Aurora in Scotland this weekend.
The Northern Lights have been extremely visible at times this year, yet poor weather threatens Scots’ chances of being able to catch a glimpse this time around.
It is expected to be raining and overcast across much of the country, but the Met Office has said the Northern Lights will be visible across Scotland “where skies are clear”.
The Met Office posted on Twitter/X: “Aurora activity is expected to increase this weekend, potentially being visible across Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England where skies are clear.
Aurora activity is expected to increase this weekend, potentially being visible across Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England where skies are clear Saturday night has the greatest likelihood of aurora sightings further south, across central England and similar latitudes
— Met Office (@metoffice) October 3, 2024
“Saturday night has the greatest likelihood of aurora sightings further south, across central England and similar latitudes.”
What are the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are caused by charged particles from the sun hitting gases in the Earth's atmosphere.
The colours occur due to different gases in the Earth's atmosphere being energised by the charged particles.
Nitrogen and oxygen are the two most common gases in the atmosphere, with nitrogen emitting purple, blue and pink colours and oxygen emitting green.
How to see the Northern Lights in Scotland
Here are some handy tips from the Met Office for seeing the Northern Lights as they return to Scotland and the UK.
You need a clear night with no cloud cover. Find a dark location with no light pollution. Look toward the northern horizon, but be patient as these can appear late into the night or early in the morning
