The skies have been relatively calm these last few weeks, but that could soon be set to change.
It's thanks to a large coronal hole (which stretches more than one million kilometres), which is rotating into a position that will face Earth over the coming days. As it does, it's expected to release a fast-moving stream of solar wind that could reach Earth, and bring with it an increased chance at seeing the Aurora Australis.
While nothing is guaranteed, we've got the important details below.
When would it happen?
The solar wind stream is expected to begin arriving from July 22, though the exact timing and strength remain uncertain.
As with all aurora forecasts, conditions can change quickly, so you should keep an eye on space weather updates over the coming days if you want to see it. If a geomagnetic storm does develop, the best chance of seeing the Southern Lights will be after dark from locations with minimal light pollution and clear skies.
We'll keep you updated on exact timings if and when they firm up.
Where could you see the Southern Lights?
Where the Aurora Australis is visible is dependant on how the geomagnetic storm develops.
If the storm only reaches a G1 level, the Aurora Australis is most likely to be visible from southern Tasmania, with parts of New Zealand's South Island also having a chance at glimpsing it.
If it intensifies into a G2 storm, there's a possibility the Aurora Australis could be seen further north, including Victoria and parts of New South Wales (given the skies are clear and dark).
What is causing this potential Aurora Australis?
A coronal hole isn't actually a hole in the Sun. Rather, it's a region where the Sun's magnetic field opens into space, allowing charged particles (i.e., solar wind) to escape at higher speeds than usual. When that stream reaches Earth, it can interact with our magnetic field, producing geomagnetic storms.
As we know, these storms are what create auroras – the familiar ribbons of green, pink and purple light.
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Feature image by Sebastian Knoll via Unsplash.
