Almost every pair of eyes in the UK looked to the sky earlier this month when the stunning Northern Lights crept south and dazzled Brits.
However, some people pointed out that the phenomenon was much clearer when viewed through their phone cameras. Taking to X, formerly Twitter, one asked: “Why’d my phone see the Northern Lights better than I could?”
To answer that question, it’s important to understand how the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, actually works.
READ MORE: Northern Lights return tonight as experts reveal Brits’ best chance to catch them
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It is a phenomenon caused by the sun, which is constantly giving off mass ejections of plasma or gas, though not all of them hit the Earth.
(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
Some ejections are stronger and the northern lights appear more prominently as a result. So why is it more visible through a phone camera?
The short answer is technology. Phone cameras were developed to adapt to low light environments, and so, they can seek out and illuminate the Northern Lights to the naked eye.
Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence bot said it is “a common misconception” that the lights are exclusively visible through cameras.
It explained that the Aurora can range in intensity.
Faint displays might be difficult to see with the naked eye, especially in areas with light pollution. Cameras can capture faint light over a longer period, revealing colors and details that our eyes might miss.
(Image: Getty Images)
It added that our eyes are not as sensitive to certain wavelengths of light, especially at night.
The Aurora can sometimes appear more muted or greyish to the naked eye compared to the vibrant colors captured in photos.
Cameras can use long exposure times to gather more light, which intensifies the colors of the Aurora in the final image.
And ahead of the lights returning this evening (Monday, May 20) thanks to a series of solar storms from an over-active sun, the bot offered advice on how to see the phenomenon better:
Travel to high latitudes:
The Aurora is most visible near the Arctic and Antarctic circles.
Seek darkness
Light pollution from cities can obscure the view. Look for a location with minimal light interference
Go during peak season
The Northern Lights are most frequent in the winter and equinox months (September/March).
Adjust your expectations
While cameras can capture stunning colors, the naked eye can still see a mesmerizing light show, especially during strong displays.
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