According to Dr. Schmoll, the Earth's magnetic field has a north and south pole, just like any magnet. The sun does as well. Dr. Schmoll says that science is still figuring out the specifics, but in short, the poles of the sun and Earth line up better during the equinox, which is conducive to more frequent auroras.

People up late tonight could catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights according to the Met Office, with those in Scotland and Northern England having the highest chances of all

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted a much stronger northern lights display than usual Saturday night following a strong geomagnetic storm.