If we have clear skies tonight, Iowans will likely have the rare treat of being able to see the aurora borealis or northern lights. This week’s solar flare ejected particles that show up in the night sky as colorful glowing bands of light, according to Doug Rudd, president of the Des Moines Astronomical Society. Rudd says he watched the light show last night (Tuesday) and explains where and when folks may be able to see a repeat tonight. He was watching the northern sky, away from the city lights, between nine P.M. and midnight. For people who haven’t seen the northern lights before, Rudd says they’re very impressive and worth bundling up to view.Due to the size of this week’s solar flare, the northern lights may still be visible over Iowa tomorrow night (Friday) as well.
