We might be able to see the aurora the next few nights. Maybe.
Our neighborhood star. It remembered to wear its flare for this week's shift.
Earlier this week the sun emitted its biggest solar flare in four years, and as result zillions of particles were shot in this direction (well, not this way exactly -- toward Earth, which includes the Capital Region). That's prompted predictions the aurora borealis -- AKA, the Northern Lights -- could be especially active over the next few days, which means we might be able to see it here.
The key word is "might." This part of the nation falls under the current aurora zone, but we're near the edge of it. Further complicating potential viewing: a full/near-full moon and cloudy skies the next few nights.
But you never know. Look for a reddish glow on the northern horizon. It'd be pretty cool to see.
(Thanks, Ryan!)
image: NASA/SDO
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Comments
mmm...steamed hams...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJimEmdDA-w
... said Save Pine Hills on Feb 17, 2011 at 4:17 PM | link
If we do, I would be able to acomplish one of my life goals (seeing the northern lights). But that seem like a lame way to do it.
... said Jessica R on Feb 17, 2011 at 5:44 PM | link
I see reddish glow on the northern horizon daily.
It's called Schenectady.
... said Lu on Feb 17, 2011 at 6:06 PM | link