A breathtaking aurora panorama was captured at Salem, South Australia, on Friday, October 11, 2024, around 9 PM, wowing photographers and skywatchers alike. The stunning image, created from a six-photo stitch, shows the vibrant colors of the aurora lighting up the night sky, painting a mesmerizing display over the small town.
Auroras, often known as the northern or southern lights, are a rare sight in Australia, making this particular display even more special. The combination of strong solar activity and clear skies provided perfect conditions for the aurora to appear over Salem. The photo shows bands of green, purple, and pink light stretching across the horizon, creating a surreal scene.
The photographer behind the six-image panorama shared their excitement about capturing the phenomenon. “It was a magical sight. You could see the lights dancing across the sky, and I knew I had to capture it,” they said. By stitching together six images, they managed to create a wide panoramic view that showcases the full scope of the aurora’s beauty.
Experts explain that auroras occur when solar wind particles collide with Earth’s magnetic field, producing light in the upper atmosphere. While they are commonly seen in polar regions, strong geomagnetic storms can sometimes bring the spectacle to lower latitudes, as happened in this case.
Skywatchers in southern parts of Australia were treated to the rare light show, and many took to social media to share their photos and experiences. The aurora’s appearance in Salem was a reminder of the awe-inspiring beauty that can be found in the night sky, even in unexpected places.
If the current solar activity continues, it’s possible that more auroras may be visible in the coming days. Keep your cameras ready!
