If you missed last year’s Aurora Australis on May 11, which brightened the night sky with stunning colors, Wednesday, November 12 could offer another opportunity to see this natural spectacle.
The Bureau of Meteorology reports increased solar activity recently, marked by two Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) released from the Sun. CMEs are massive bursts of high-energy plasma traveling through space from the sun’s surface.
When these bursts reach Earth, they interact with its magnetic field and atmosphere, producing vibrant auroras. For tonight, a G4 geomagnetic storm is predicted, with the two CMEs expected to arrive almost simultaneously.
Good luck and happy aurora hunting.
Author’s summary: Increased solar activity tonight may create a spectacular Aurora Australis, best viewed in dark southern skies after sunset for a chance to witness vivid natural light displays.