Aurora Borealis: Huge space storm could make Northern Lights visible over UK

Stargazers in Scotland, the north of England and Northern Ireland could be treated to a spectacular Northern Lights display on Tuesday, thanks to a huge solar storm.

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is a phenomenon that appears as shimmering waves of stunning colour in the sky.

It may be visible in UK skies because a Coronal Mass Ejection is expected – this is when a giant burst of gas – or plasma – shoots out from the sun and causes something called a geomagnetic storm.

According to the US Space Weather Prediction Centre, the storm could also cause some disruptions for spacecraft.

The skies will need to be clear for nature’s light show to be truly for some.

While the light show could be visible across much of Scotland, “cloud amounts are increasing, meaning sightings are unlikely for

“There is a slight chance of aurora reaching the far north of England and Northern Ireland tonight, but cloud breaks and therefore sightings are more likely in Northern Ireland.”

But, despite the weather, Tom Kerss, astronomer and author encouraged people to try and see them.