Stargazers across northern China witnessed a rare celestial spectacle this week as auroras painted the night sky, fueled by moderate geomagnetic activity. The phenomenon, typically associated with polar regions, illuminated provinces like Heilongjiang and Inner Mongolia on Wednesday night, November 12, with scientists predicting another potential display on Thursday, November 13.
Dr. Li Wei, an astrophysicist at Peking University, explained: "While auroras are uncommon at this latitude, heightened solar activity interacting with Earth’s magnetic field created ideal conditions. Such events remind us of our planet’s dynamic connection to space weather."
Local photographers and residents shared vibrant images of green and crimson hues dancing above snow-capped landscapes. "It felt like the sky was celebrating," said Zhang Mei, a Harbin-based teacher who captured the lights near the Russian border.
While Thursday’s forecast suggests reduced intensity, enthusiasts are advised to seek dark, open areas away from city lights after midnight for optimal viewing. The Chinese Meteorological Administration will provide real-time updates through its space weather monitoring platform.
