Perth is gearing up for a celestial spectacle, with the most significant Aurora Australis light show in years expected to illuminate the Western Australian sky tonight. The anticipated event has generated such excitement that some dedicated photographers have reportedly taken the day off work to ensure they capture the phenomenon.
What's Causing the Spectacular Light Show?
The source of tonight's anticipated display is a series of coronal mass ejections (CME) – massive eruptions of high-energy plasma from the sun's surface. These particles travel through space and, upon reaching Earth, collide with gases in our atmosphere, creating the dazzling curtains of coloured light known as the aurora.
While two smaller CMEs struck Earth earlier on Wednesday, it is the third and most powerful one, expected around 8pm, that has the space community buzzing. The timing is perfect for West Australians, as darkness will have fallen just as the solar particles arrive, providing optimal viewing conditions.
Adding to the ideal setup, the moon won't rise until 12.49am, meaning the sky will remain dark for hours, allowing for an uninterrupted view of the aurora before moonlight interferes.
Expert Insight and Viewing Potential
Matt Woods from the Perth Observatory confirmed the high level of anticipation, suggesting this event could potentially surpass the superstorm witnessed in May last year. "I've got friends who have taken today off," Mr Woods said. "It's fairly exciting, we're cautiously optimistic about tonight but patience and persistence is the key."
While the southern regions of WA are typically the prime location for aurora viewing, Mr Woods indicated that this storm could be visible from Perth suburbs as far north as Joondalup, and there's even a chance it could be seen from Karratha.
Viewers can hope to see "pinks, reds, a lightish green colour," according to Woods. He added, "But it will have to be an amazing storm if we were to get green in Perth but it might happen, you've just got to get out there and hope for the best."
Best Locations to Witness the Aurora
The Perth Observatory has recommended several locations for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the Southern Lights. Their top spots include:
- North Ledge Lookout
- Lake Leschenaultia
- The central Wheatbelt
- Herron Point and Island Reserve
- Esperance
- Albany
- Ferguson Valley
- Cape Leeuwin
While it may be possible to see the aurora with the naked eye, the Observatory advises that "long exposure photography is your best friend" for capturing the most vibrant and impressive results.
Mr Woods also offered some sage advice for prospective aurora chasers: "Auroras, like comets, meteor showers, and cats, do their own thing. Patience is everything. I chased the October 2024 aurora for five nights before it finally lit up the sky. So, use this time to unwind, enjoy the stars (or clouds), and recharge the brain."
