http://idealab.talkingpointsmemo.com/2012/01/strongest-solar-storm-in-years-is-visual-stunner.php?ref=fpnewsfeedA major coronal mass ejection aimed directly towards earth will be the strongest since at least 2005 (this article mentions 2003... but I think 2005 is correct). It should interact with our magnetic field and make for stunning Northern Lights displays in northern (boreal) and southern (austral) latitudes.
Unfortunately it is supposed to cloud up here, so I don't think I'll get to see them. We do often see them even at this relatively low latitude. The best one I ever saw was near the solar maximum in late 1999 I believe. That time saw intense pinks, oranges, and greens roiling almost directly overhead, almost as if the stars were falling to the surface of the earth. I'll never forget that one.
