THE rare and spectacular sight of the aurora borealis lighting up the night sky over the Isle of Wight, unsurprisingly had its residents delaying going to bed to take some amazing pictures.

And we have started a gallery of your best photos from last night's (Friday) incredible astronomical event.

The phenomena known as the Northern Lights, caused by a solar storm hitting the Earth’s atmosphere, could be seen across the UK, Europe and the northern hemisphere.

Although there have been occasions where the Northern Lights have been seen from the Island before, it is unusual to have seen them quite as vividly as they appeared last night.

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The Met Office say the same conditions and visibility window could be repeated this evening (Saturday).

Please send in your favourite Northern Lights photos to editor@iwcp.co.uk 

 

Met Office spokesman Stephen Dixon said on Friday: “Although the shorter nights will limit the visibility window, there’s a good chance to see the aurora, particularly on Friday night and especially in Scotland, Ireland and parts of northern England and Wales.

“There could even be visibility further south if you have the right equipment.

“Those conditions could continue on Saturday night but we still have to work out some details on where exactly that will be.”

Dixon said the combination of clear skies and enhanced activity from the sun reaching Earth would improve the chances of seeing the display.