Aurora Australis Alert: Visible Tonight
Grab your jumper and head outdoors—the Southern Lights may be visible tonight if conditions align. The Australian Space Weather Forecasting Centre (ASWFC) has issued an Aurora Alert signaling a geomagnetic storm currently underway, offering a chance to witness this spectacular natural light show in high-latitude Southern Australia.
Where to Watch
For the best viewing experience, move as far south as possible and away from city lights. Tasmania and New Zealand's South Island offer the best odds. Mainland Southern Australia, including Victoria, southern New South Wales, and South Australia, might also see the aurora if the skies are very dark and free of light pollution.
Optimal Timing
- Between 10pm and 2am local time is the prime viewing window.
- Displays usually last 1 to 3 hours.
- Check the ASWFC’s auroral oval tool to see if your location falls within the “equatorward visibility line” for tonight.
Scientific Background
"When the sun flings charged particles out—solar wind, coronal mass ejections (CMEs)—they travel toward Earth and hit our planet’s magnetic field. Once trapped, they interact with molecules in the upper atmosphere (oxygen, nitrogen), releasing light."
This interaction causes the colorful dance of lights known as the aurora.
Summary
Tonight offers a rare chance to witness the Aurora Australis in southern regions if you find a dark, clear spot away from city lights between 10pm and 2am.
Author’s summary: A current geomagnetic storm may reveal the Southern Lights tonight in southern Australia and New Zealand; clear, dark skies are essential for the best view.
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