Local photographer Vladimir Medvinsky recently had a breathtaking experience witnessing the aurora borealis near Lake Henshaw. Initially hoping to capture the Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS at Palomar Mountain, the comet was unfortunately obscured by the sun’s glare. However, Medvinsky’s disappointment turned into excitement when he learned of a geomagnetic storm that could bring the northern lights further south than usual.
Racing towards the Anza Borrego Desert with his family, Medvinsky was able to capture the aurora borealis dancing in the night sky. Using his professional camera equipment, he took multiple photos to create stunning time-lapse videos of the natural light show. Additionally, he managed to capture a rare optical phenomenon known as the stable auroral red arc, or SAR arc, stretching across the sky.
The SAR arc is a reddish-magenta display that occurs in the upper atmosphere, adding to the already mesmerizing sight of the aurora borealis. Medvinsky encouraged others to step outside and witness this rare event in Southern California, emphasizing the beauty of nature’s wonders.
For those who missed the opportunity to see the aurora borealis, there is still hope. The National Weather Service has issued a Geomagnetic Storm Watch extending through Friday, providing another chance for individuals to catch a glimpse of the dancing pillars of light in the night sky. Be sure to keep an eye out for future celestial events and natural phenomena that may grace the skies in the coming days and weeks.
