Recent sightings of the aurora borealis have garnered significant media attention, particularly following the largest solar flare since 2017, which occurred in early October 2023. This solar activity heightened the chances of auroral displays, leading to spectacular views across the UK, especially in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England, with reports of sightings extending as far south as Kent. The phenomenon has captivated both amateur and professional photographers, resulting in stunning images shared globally.
Aurora borealis, or northern lights, is a natural light display predominantly visible in high-latitude regions near the Arctic. It occurs when charged particles from the Sun collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere, producing vibrant colors, primarily greens, pinks, and purples. The southern counterpart, known as aurora australis, is visible in the Antarctic regions. These displays are most commonly observed during periods of heightened solar activity, such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections, which can significantly increase the intensity and frequency of auroras.