What happened
On October 19, 2026, the sun emitted an M1.7 class solar flare from active region AR4551. This type of flare can influence space weather, particularly in relation to Earth. In addition to the flare, a coronal hole on the sun is sending fast solar wind toward our planet, which enhances the possibility of auroral displays in the coming days.
Can you see it?
While the flare itself is not directly visible to the naked eye, its effects—particularly the auroras—might be visible if you are in the right locations. Auroras are best seen in high-latitude regions, such as northern Canada, Alaska, and Scandinavia. For those in lower latitudes, the auroras may still be visible during strong solar events, but they will be less frequent and more challenging to spot.
What it means for your nights out
If you're planning a night under the stars, keep an eye on the aurora forecasts, especially in the days following the solar flare. Auroras can create stunning displays of light in the night sky, painting it with vibrant greens, reds, and purples. Even if you don’t live in the prime aurora zone, a good solar event can sometimes bring these magical lights closer to home, so it’s worth checking local conditions and being prepared for a possible show.
Originally reported by EarthSky. This summary was written by Dark Sky Guide.