Possible Northern Lights show for the UK in the coming days

Due to a geomagnetic storm, the Aurora Borealis – more commonly known as the Northern Lights – might be visible further south than normal.

Residents across Scotland, Northern Ireland and the north of England might be in for a treat if the skies are clear.

Tonight (5th January) is likely to be one of the best chances for us to see the beautiful natural phenomenon; and the further north you are, the more likely your chances are of seeing it.

Last night, there was 'minor geomagnetic activity', meaning 'aurora may be visible by eye from Scotland and may be visible by camera from Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland'.

The aurora is created when solar wind particles collide with air molecules in the earth's atmosphere, creating the beautiful colours in the sky. Although often green and blue, reds and pinks are also visible.

If you're wondering what the aurora look like in action, here is an amazing video taken by a photographer in Denmark which was uploaded last month.

AT THE EDGE OF THE SOLAR STORM - 4K from AD Photography on Vimeo.

You can find out more information about aurora here »

• Features
• On Air