Aurora Alert: G2 Geomagnetic Storm Watch ā 2 August 2026
š Quick aurora alert as of 20:40 BST, 2nd August 2026. Conditions are looking favourable for aurora tonight ā here's everything you need to know.
Current Situation
Hi everyone! Just a quick aurora update. A Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) associated with an M1.9 class solar flare that erupted on the 30th of July arrived at Earth earlier today around 13:29 BST.
This CME has given a nice boost to the solar wind, with stats reaching G2 (moderate) storm levels at around 18:00 BST. If these conditions continue into the night, we could see some lovely auroral activity ā let's keep our fingers crossed! š¤
Current Stats
Solar wind speed is at moderately elevated levels, fluctuating between 400ā440 km/s.
Density reached moderately high levels of around 34 p/ccm at approximately 14:20 BST and is still looking quite good at around 24 p/ccm.
The IMF strength (Bt) reached impressive levels of 21 nT around 16:00 BST and is still looking nice at around 14 nT.
The polarity of the IMF (Bz) reached a nice negative value of -16 nT around 16:00 BST and has been staying south for most of the day, but has recently shifted to northward values of 11 nT. Hopefully the polarity swings back south and holds there, allowing the aurora to build. In short, conditions are favourable but watch this space.
Earth Weather
At the start of the night, some areas in Northern Scotland and Southern England are looking best for clear skies. However, as the night progresses, the weather is forecast to improve ā much of Southern England up to Yorkshire, and more of Northern Scotland, should see clear skies.
Remember, weather forecasts are never 100% accurate and it is worth checking for any gaps through the night.
Lunar Conditions
Unfortunately, we are only 4 days past full Moon, so the Moon will be causing a lot of natural light pollution and will be in the sky for the entire night.
Astronomical Darkness Returning
Thankfully, we are now experiencing longer and darker nights and are seeing true astronomical darkness between 12:45ā01:44 BST at mid UK. Darkness-wise (moon aside), things are looking better for aurora hunting.
Summary
We currently have some fairly nice solar wind stats and if everything falls into place, we could be treated to aurora that outshines the bright Moon. Let's all keep our fingers crossed! šāØ
Follow Our Socials for Updates
As always, we will be keeping an eye on the skies and satellite data and will keep you all updated with any developments.
Please follow our Facebook @astrodoguk for up-to-date and accurate aurora alerts ā we always make sure to alert you if things are looking promising to give you the best chance possible of seeing and photographing the aurora yourselves. šš
Wishing you good luck and clear skies. āØ
