On Monday evening, January 19, Romanians had a show in the sky. Several people, from different localities, shared pictures of the aurora borealis. It was last seen in the sky in November 2025.
Two years ago, researchers explained that we see the northern lights in the sky more often because the Sun is at the “peak” of its 11-year solar cycle. Thus, the magnetic poles of the Sun reverse once every 11 years and it goes from a slow activity to an active and stormy one.
Thus, during the night from Monday to Tuesday, Romanians could enjoy this show in the sky.
According to DW, the Sun has emitted the strongest solar radiation storm in over 20 years. The phenomenon caused the auroras to light up the sky in some parts of the world.
Thus, the northern lights could be seen in Canada and the northern half of the US, as well as in parts of Europe, including Germany, Switzerland and Ukraine.
Monday night’s solar storm is the result of a massive burst of electrically charged particles that left the Sun on Sunday and which, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), were forecast to reach Earth on Monday and Tuesday.
Monday night’s rare geomagnetic storm reached G4 level, among the strongest, after a cloud of solar particles reached Earth unusually quickly.
The last event of such intensity occurred in 2003, and such storms can affect satellites, objects in space and power grids, adds DW.
Romanians from outside the country also shared images of the aurora borealis.
How to capture the aurora as best as possible
To capture the aurora borealis, keep some recommendations in mind:
– See on the weather radar if it’s clear. Clouds can completely hide the phenomenon. Check the weather forecast on our radar map before you head out.
– Dress well and be patient. Even on cold nights, it is worth waiting a few hours for such a rare moment.
– Find a dark place. Away from cities and artificial light sources. Mountain areas, open plains or lake shores are ideal.
– Look north. The aurora most often occurs above the northern horizon.
– Be prepared between 22:00 and 02:00. This is the time when the chances of observation are the highest, but the aurora can be seen at any time in the night sky.
– Adapt your vision to the dark. Sit for a few minutes without looking at screens or bright lights so you can make out the subtle shades of the aurora.
– Use a long exposure camera. Even if the unaided eye perceives colors less well, a well-made photograph can capture the spectacle in all its glory.
