On rare nights in May and October 2024, the skies above Ladakh witnessed a breathtaking celestial show — the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. Typically visible only in the polar regions, the auroras made a rare appearance over the Indian subcontinent due to exceptionally strong solar storms. This rare event marked the first recorded sighting of auroral activity visible to the naked eye from Indian territory in modern times.
But what caused these lights to be visible from Ladakh, a region far from the Arctic Circle? And will such displays happen again?
Let’s unravel the science, geography, and significance behind this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
What Are Northern Lights and Why Do They Occur?
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are dazzling displays of natural light that occur in high-latitude regions. But what exactly causes this visual spectacle?
- Auroras are created when charged solar particles interact with gases in Earth’s upper atmosphere.
- These particles excite oxygen and nitrogen atoms, causing them to emit light—most commonly green, red, and purple.
- Auroras typically occur near the poles, but under strong solar conditions, they can travel to lower latitudes.
Why Were Northern Lights Visible in India in 2024?
In both May and October 2024, Earth experienced intense solar storms, which dramatically extended the auroral zone southward—including parts of northern India.
What Happened in May 2024?
- A series of four powerful Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) from the Sun struck Earth.
- This triggered a G4-level geomagnetic storm, the second-highest level on the NOAA scale.
- The storm caused auroras in India, the southern U.S., China, and Europe.
What Happened in October 2024?
- An X1.8-class solar flare launched another fast-moving CME.
- It again triggered a G4 storm, lighting up the skies of Leh, Hanle, Merak, and Pangong Lake.
Where in India Were the Auroras Seen?
Auroras were visible from high-altitude Himalayan locations, where clear skies and minimal light pollution allowed perfect viewing conditions.
- Hanle: Home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, it recorded faint red arcs using time-lapse photography.
- Merak Village: Observed rare SAR arcs across the sky.
- Leh & Stakna Monastery: Residents and photographers reported red glows during the October storm
What Is a SAR Arc and How Is It Different?
A unique feature of the Ladakh auroras was the Stable Auroral Red (SAR) arc—rare and different from typical auroras.
- SAR arcs occur at higher altitudes (700–950 km) and are caused by low-energy electrons.
- They appear as red bands, typically visible during intense geomagnetic activity.
- The May 2024 sightings confirmed the presence of SAR arcs over India, a scientific first.
What Role Did Solar Cycle 25 Play in This Event?
The aurora sightings coincided with the peak phase of Solar Cycle 25, a period of high solar activity.
- Solar Cycle 25 (2020–2031) is expected to peak between 2024 and 2026.
- During this time, increased solar flares and CMEs make auroras more frequent—even at lower latitudes.
- India’s recent sightings may not be the last.
ISRO’s Aditya-L1 mission is also monitoring solar storms, giving India an advanced role in space weather forecasting.
Were These Auroras Seen Elsewhere Around the World?
Yes! The solar storms in 2024 caused auroras to be visible far beyond the usual auroral zone:
- United States: Seen in Alabama, Texas, and even California
- Europe: Visible across France, Germany, and Spain
- China: Aurora glow recorded in Beijing and Xinjiang
- India: Seen from high Himalayan terrain, especially in Ladakh
This was one of the most widespread auroral events in modern recorded history.
How Can You View or Photograph Auroras in India?
Want to capture the next aurora in Ladakh? Here’s what you need to know:
When to Watch
- Late night to early morning (12:30–3:30 AM)
- During a G3 or G4 solar storm alert
Where to Go
- Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (certified stargazing site)
- Merak, Pangong Lake, and Leh outskirts
What Gear to Use
- DSLR or mirrorless camera, wide-angle lens (14–24 mm)
- ISO 1600–3200, 15–30s exposure, tripod and remote shutter
How Can You Track Auroras from India?
To prepare for future events, monitor these tools:
Why Is This Significant for India?
Does It Boost India’s Scientific Profile?
Yes. It proves India’s capabilities in space weather monitoring, aligning with global players like NASA and NOAA.
Can It Boost Tourism?
The aurora sightings have put Hanle and Merak on the map for astro-tourism, similar to Iceland or Norway.
How Will ISRO’s Missions Benefit?
India’s Aditya-L1 mission will strengthen aurora and solar storm forecasting—crucial for satellite safety, aviation, and future aurora prediction.
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