Scientists are predicting a unique cosmic phenomenon: in the first hours of 2026, auroras may appear over Russia. According to experts, this will be the result of the simultaneous impact of two solar factors: a small coronal hole in the northern hemisphere of the Sun and the edge of a plasma cloud ejected after a series of M-class flares. This combination can cause weak magnetic storms and activate the glow in the Earth's atmosphere.
The greatest chances of seeing the celestial show remain in the northern and northwestern regions. Murmansk, Arkhangelsk, and St. Petersburg are among the most promising cities. In central Russia, including Moscow, the probability of observation is estimated at approximately 20%. South of latitudes 50–52°, bright auroras are extremely rare and depend on a fortunate set of circumstances.
It is important to consider that New Year's Eve is not the most convenient background for observations. Bright city lighting, festive illumination, and a waxing Moon will create additional skyglow. In such conditions, smartphone and camera sensors can help: they capture faint shades of auroras that are difficult to distinguish with the naked eye.
Solar coronal holes are areas on the Sun with reduced plasma density, from where more solar wind escapes into space. Plasma clouds ejected after flares carry electrically charged particles that interact with the Earth's magnetic field. These processes create a multicolored glow in the atmosphere, known as the aurora borealis.