Aurora Images

The Sun is finally becoming active again after an unprecedented quiet period.  Earth based observers have already witnessed some auroral displays caused by charged particles from the Sun passing through the Earth's upper atmosphere.

The following images of the aurora borealis (or 'Northern Lights') were taken from the small village of Hopeman on the southern shores of the Moray Firth in Scotland in previous years.  This location provides dark skies to the north over the firth - ideal for observing the aurora.  If you wish to try your luck at catching a display, there are several Bed and Breakfast establishments in the village where you can stay.  One I can particularly recommend is the small, family run Ardglass Bed & Breakfast situated about five minutes walk from the north facing beaches.  Of course, predicting an auroral display is very difficult, however, if you are not lucky enough to see an auroral display, you will still see a beautiful coastline and possibly some of the famous Moray Firth dolphins.

The 'Northern Lights' can, during a strong display, be seen from England.  In 1989 one particular display of the aurora was witnessed from as far south as the mediterranean!

If you wish to keep up to date with solar activity, visit the excellent SpaceWeather website or, for more local activity within the UK, the AuroraWatch page of the Lancaster University website.

All images © R Pearce 2010