The breathtaking aurora borealis may be visible this Friday night across several US states. This is thanks to a recent space phenomenon.
A geomagnetic storm pushed the northern lights further south than usual this week. As a result, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center (NWSSWPC) calculates another chance to see them at the right location on October 11, 2024, after many witnessed the event the previous day.
The NWSSWPC has been tracking the aurora’s activity and predicts a KP index of five for Friday night. This index, ranging from 0 to 9, indicates the intensity of the aurora.
A KP of 5 suggests a brighter and more active aurora, potentially visible further south than usual. The aurora typically appears as a green oval centered on Earth’s magnetic pole, but it can turn red during periods of heightened activity.
While often seen just after sunset or before sunrise, the aurora is not visible in daylight. Interestingly, it doesn’t have to be directly overhead to be seen; under ideal conditions, it can be observed from as far as 1,000 km (approximately 621 miles) away.
This celestial display isn’t just a visual wonder; it also serves as an indicator of geomagnetic storm conditions. These events can impact various technologies, including radio communication and GPS navigation
The NWSSWPC emphasizes the aurora borealis as an exceptional opportunity for many to personally experience the wonders of space weather. It is a captivating nighttime display that entices people to journey to Arctic regions simply to witness its beauty.
To see this event, the NWSSWPC suggests finding a location with minimal light pollution and an unobstructed view to the north. A higher vantage point, like a hill, can further enhance your viewing experience. Additionally, the optimal time to watch is usually within an hour or two of midnight, between 10 PM and 2 AM local time.
So, which states are most likely to catch this dazzling display? According to the view line calculated by the NWSSWPC, Alaska and northern parts of Washington have a higher chance of seeing it. Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin are also in this range.
Other states, including Montana, South Dakota, Iowa, Michigan, New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, also have a possibility, though the likelihood is lower
Areas in the rest of the world may also see them. For example, the Meteorological Office predicts that cloudy skies will limit vision for most of the UK, except for Scotland.
This week’s stunning aurora borealis displays weren’t a surprise. The NWSSWPC issued a G4 storm watch on October 9th, 2024, following a coronal mass ejection from the Sun on October 8th.
This powerful solar event had the potential to cause significant disruptions to crucial infrastructure. “There is potential to reach G4 (Severe) upon arrival of this CME and throughout its passage,” the NWSSWPC warned. Eventually, the storm got stronger than initial predictions.
Therefore, this Friday night aurora borealis promises a captivating spectacle for those lucky enough to witness it. However, remember, these predictions can change depending on local weather conditions. Also, the unpredictable nature of this space phenomenon also factors into any chance of viewing.
Prince William receives new title from King Charles as Prince Harry arrives in the UK
The beginning of this month marked an important development for the British royal family.
Prince Harry landed in London to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games, and during his stay in his home country, his brother, Prince William, received a significant new honour from King Charles. The timing seemed coincidental, but yet, many saw it as a major snub to Prince Harry.
The announcement from the Palace revealed that King Charles III has appointed Prince William as the colonel-in-chief of the Army Air Corps.
“His Majesty the King will officially hand over the role of Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales,” the palace’s statement read. “In August 2023, following His Majesty’s Accession, the King was pleased to announce military appointments including that the Prince of Wales would become Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps. The role was previously held by His Majesty the King, as Prince of Wales, for 31 years.”
William’s new role places him in charge of Harry’s former unit. In 2008, Harry completed his Army Air Corps “Grading” and Pilot’s Selection Board interview, subsequently training as an Army Air Corps pilot in 2009.
“On successful completion of that Army Pilots Course, Prince Harry was selected to train on the Apache Attack Helicopter,” Harry’s official biography before he was removed from the official royal family website read. “On the same day, it was announced that Prince Harry received his provisional wings from his father.” Charles was colonel-in-chief of the Army Air Corps at the time, making the ceremony extra meaningful for Harry.
The unveiling of Prince William’s new designation emerges during a period of increased public curiosity, partly influenced by the tense rapport between Prince Harry and his father. Speculation surrounding the nature of their exchanges, or the lack thereof, during Prince Harry’s recent trip to the U.K. underscores the intricacies of royal relationships.
During Harry’s most recent visit, he and his father, King Charles, didn’t meet due to the king’s “full programme.”
However, the statement by Prince Harry added that he “hopes to see him soon.”
Despite the strained relationships with the members of the Firm, Harry expressed his happiness about returning to the UK. Regarding the party, he described it as “amazing” and commended the work of Scotty’s, emphasizing the incredible and necessary support they provide to children.
“The more opportunity you get to do these kinds of events, the more the families and kids know this place exists which is really the most important thing,” Harry said, as reported by BBC.
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