Spring is finally here, and with it comes the awe-inspiring beauty of the Aurora Borealis. On March 3rd, a long-awaited Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) collided with Earth’s magnetic field, resulting in stunning displays of the Northern Lights around the Arctic Circle. Luckily, many photographers were able to capture these captivating images, and we have gathered the best 11 for your viewing pleasure.
One of the breathtaking images was taken by Steven Lomas at Derwent Reservoir in County Durham, North East England. The vibrant colors of the Aurora dancing across the sky create a mesmerizing sight. The image perfectly captures the ethereal beauty of the lights against the serene backdrop of the reservoir.
In Keswick, England, Jonny Gios was able to capture multiple stunning views of the Aurora during the early hours of the morning. The vivid hues of green and purple streak across the night sky, creating a truly mesmerizing spectacle. Gios’s images showcase the dynamic nature of the Northern Lights, capturing their ever-changing forms and colors.
Oliver C Wright had an unforgettable experience in Abisko National Park, witnessing an Aurora over Lapporten. He describes it as his best sighting of the Northern Lights since he started working in Abisko in 2014. The image showcases the lights illuminating the iconic Lapporten mountain, creating a picture-perfect scene.
Peter Byrne offers a unique perspective with his photograph titled “Another Place… Anthony Gormley’s Iron Men statues and the Northern Lights.” The image captures the juxtaposition of the modern art installation and the natural wonder of the Aurora. The Northern Lights add an otherworldly element to the scene, enhancing the beauty of both art and nature.
Perhaps one of the most historic images in our collection is Nick Bull’s photograph of the Northern Lights illuminating the sky over Stonehenge. This iconic landmark becomes even more magical as the vibrant colors of the Aurora dance above it. It is a sight that will surely be remembered for generations to come.
Moving to Scotland, a local resident in Ullapool captured a stunning image of the Aurora illuminating the night sky. The image showcases the lights in all their glory, casting a mystical glow over the village and its surrounding mountains. It is a testament to the natural beauty that can be found in the Scottish Highlands.
Skerries, Ireland, also experienced the enchantment of the Aurora. Sryan Bruen’s image captures the lights shimmering above the coastal town, creating a scene that is truly unforgettable. The colors and patterns of the lights add a touch of magic to the already picturesque landscape.
In Castlerea County, Roscommon, an incredible image of the Northern Lights was captured using an iPhone. The photographer demonstrates that even with limited equipment, it is still possible to capture the beauty of this natural phenomenon. The image serves as a reminder that anyone can witness the wonder of the Aurora with just a little bit of luck and a keen eye.
Finally, May from Alaska shares an image showcasing a multicolored display of the Aurora. The vibrant hues of green, pink, and purple create a mesmerizing spectacle that seems almost otherworldly. It serves as a reminder of the diverse and ever-changing beauty of the Northern Lights.
As we enter March, it is worth noting that it is truly the best month of the year to see the Aurora Borealis. This is due to March having more geomagnetically active days than any other month. The Russell-McPherron effect explains this phenomenon, as cracks develop in Earth’s magnetosphere during the weeks surrounding equinoxes, allowing solar wind to ignite the spectacular display of the Northern Lights.
The images we have gathered from England, Scotland, and Ireland demonstrate the awe-inspiring beauty of the Aurora Borealis. They serve as a reminder of the wonders that can be found in our natural world and the importance of preserving and appreciating these breathtaking phenomena. So, grab your camera and venture outside during the month of March, as you never know when you might be lucky enough to witness the captivating beauty of the Northern Lights.
