Application Description
Stay updated on Aurora Borealis sightings in the UK with AuroraWatch UK! This app provides real-time alerts for potential aurora viewing opportunities.
The aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, is a breathtaking spectacle sometimes visible from the UK. AuroraWatch UK helps you track geomagnetic activity and receive timely notifications when aurora viewing may be possible.
Key Features:
- Geomagnetic Activity Alerts: Receive instant alerts when geomagnetic activity increases, signifying a higher likelihood of aurora sightings. These alerts are triggered by changes in the AuroraWatch status level.
- Current Alert Status: Check the current alert level directly within the app (see Notes below).
- Recent Activity History: Review geomagnetic activity data from the past 24 hours.
- 30-Minute Forecast: Access a 30-minute forecast model provided by the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC).
Important Notes:
- Not a Forecasting App: AuroraWatch UK is not a predictive tool; it provides alerts based on observed geomagnetic activity.
- Phone Settings: Ensure your phone's battery saver mode isn't interfering with push notifications. Check your phone's notification settings to ensure AuroraWatch UK is permitted to send alerts.
- Alert Delays: There's a slight delay in alert delivery to allow data stabilization, as recommended by Lancaster University.
- Location Considerations: Alerts prioritize data from the Lancaster magnetometer. This means alerts may be more conservative for those in southern England compared to those further north (e.g., Shetland).
- App Development: AuroraWatch UK (Android) is developed and maintained by Smallbouldering Projects; it's not an official Lancaster University application. Data is provided by Lancaster University, using SAMNET and/or AuroraWatchNet magnetometer networks. Learn more: http://aurorawatch.lancs.ac.uk/introduction
Version 1.97 (Updated Oct 20, 2024):
This update includes:
- Added abbreviations to the "About" section.
- Added Bristol and Portsmouth to the list of locations.
- Introduced a new optional alert notification triggered by specific value increases. This allows for additional alerts if the nT value surpasses a previous red alert level.
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