Skywatchers in Hungary may be treated to a rare display of the Northern Lights this weekend as charged particles from a series of powerful solar eruptions are expected to reach Earth.

According to the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, material ejected by several recent solar eruptions is forecast to arrive around 3–5 July, potentially triggering a geomagnetic storm strong enough to make the aurora visible much farther south than usual.

Powerful solar flares heading towards Earth

NASA reported on 30 June that the Sun produced an X-class solar flare—the strongest category of solar eruption. It was followed by ten weaker M-class flares. According to experts, these eruptions generated at least five solar storms travelling towards Earth, three of which could produce auroral displays if conditions are favourable.

Forecasts from Spaceweather.com indicate that a moderate (G2) geomagnetic storm is expected over the weekend, although it could strengthen to a G3 (strong) event. If that happens, the auroral oval could expand far enough south for the Northern Lights to become visible from Hungary, particularly in areas with dark skies and clear weather.

When and where to look

The Hungarian Academy of Sciences recommends looking towards the northern horizon on the evenings and nights of Friday and Saturday, as these are expected to offer the best chances of spotting the phenomenon. For the highest chance of success, observers should:

  • head away from city lights,
  • choose a location with an unobstructed northern horizon,
  • and keep an eye on local cloud forecasts.

Even if the aurora is too faint to see with the naked eye, smartphone cameras can sometimes capture colours that are barely visible to human eyes.

What causes the Northern Lights?

Geomagnetic storms occur when charged particles released by the Sun collide with Earth’s magnetic field. Some of these particles enter the upper atmosphere, where they interact with oxygen and nitrogen atoms, producing the colourful light displays known as the aurora.

The latest eruptions originated from one of the largest sunspot regions currently visible on the Sun. According to the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, the enormous sunspot (designated AR 4479) is several times larger than Earth itself.

The Academy also reminded the public never to look directly at the Sun without specialised eye protection, as doing so can cause permanent eye damage.

If you missed it: Powerful geomagnetic storm bathes Lake Balaton and Hungary in otherworldly glow – photos, video