Even if you missed it last night, there’s no way you’ve missed it on your social media this morning (11 May) as pictures of the Northern Lights are shared everywhere.
The rare sight occurred across the UK last night due to a ‘severe’ solar storm.
Colourful lights shone in the skies as the aurora borealis were visible from up in the likes of Whitley Bay all the way down to places such as Margate.
And while you may be feeling left out if you missed it last night, there’s a chance some Brits may be able to see the Northern Lights tonight.
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You’ll have to hope you’re in the right areas though (northerners have a better chance) and look up at the right time. So, here’s five vital things you need to do if you’re hoping to see the incredible sight in the UK tonight.
Check the chance of aurora being visible
Obviously, you don’t want to end up an absolute mug by standing outside when there isn’t even a chance you’ll see the Northern Lights.
So, use apps like AuroraWatchUK to get alerts based on your location.
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US Agency National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration also has a 30-minute forecast to keep an eye on.
Get away from the city
Sure, some people living in cities were able to spot the aurora last night but with tonight’s chances slimmer, you’ll want to get to darker skies.
Escape the lights of the city and drive out to where there’s less light pollution – you know, the places where you can actually see the stars at night.
Check cloud cover
The skies across the UK are mostly much clearer today thanks to the sunnier weather but if it does end up cloudy tonight, you won’t see anything.
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Low cloud is what you need to worry about as even with high cloud you could still see the Northern Lights. Use apps like Windy or Scope Nights to check your local cloud cover.
Check what time the sun sets
While activity can be high at any time of day, you can’t actually see it unless it’s very dark.
So, check what time the sun sets where you are before even getting your hopes up.
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Then, the Northern Lights are set to be visible between 10:00pm and 2:00am.
Take a tripod and use the right camera settings
If you’re hoping for that perfect social media story, you want to make sure you’ve got the right set up.
Plus, using a tripod means you can leave your phone to do its thing while you take the Northern Lights in. Keep your phone still, shoot in raw quality and use ‘night mode’ or a long exposure to get the perfect snap.
Jess Battison