In a rare occurrence, the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, was visible in Cyprus for the first time on camera.
Captured by Kitasweather, the phenomenon coincided with a powerful geomagnetic storm, the strongest since 2003, which peaked at G5 on the geomagnetic storm scale.
A camera at Prasteio Kellaki captured the red hues dancing across the northern sky for a few minutes around 1:20 a.m. local time.
The aurora faded quickly, followed by the arrival of dust observed in the region. Collisions of lower-energy particles with oxygen atoms at high altitudes, typically around 300-400 kilometres, cause the red colours associated with intense solar activity.
The all-sky panoramic camera at the Prodromos observatory also recorded the event, with the most intense activity occurring at 4:16 AM local time.
Similar sightings were reported across Europe and America, including parts of Greece and Athens.
The geomagnetic storm may peak again tonight, offering another potential opportunity to witness the aurora, particularly in areas with minimal light pollution.
The best viewing conditions are expected in the eastern half of the Troodos mountain range (Papoutsa – Machairas), Kitasweather notes.
(Footage by Kitasweather)
