As the Earth is buffeted by a stream escaping from a hole in the sun, those in the northernmost states may be in for a treat.

It therefore follows that aurora—spectacular displays of greens, reds a and yellows often seen at the highest latitudes on Earth—could be present in some form throughout the solar system.

Skywatchers are set to be dazzled by the northern lights over the coming hours, as a geomagnetic storm builds.