The Northern Lights could appear over Swindon and Wiltshire again tonight, with the illuminations expected to be visible across UK for the second evening running.

The phenomenon, known as the Aurora Borealis, could be seen vividly across the county on Friday (May 10), and experts predict there could be an encore - albeit one less spectacular than the G5 storm not seen in this country for 20 years.

Chris Snell, a meteorologist at the Met Office, said there were sightings “from top to tail across the country” but was less confident of such a performance this evening.

He said: “It is hard to fully predict what will happen in the Earth’s atmosphere, but there will still be enhanced solar activity tonight, so the lights could be visible again in northern parts of the UK, including Scotland, Northern Ireland and the far north of England.”

Mr Snell said there were sightings in parts of Europe on Friday night as well, with the Met Office receiving pictures and information from locations including Prague and Barcelona.

He advised those hoping to see the lights on Saturday to head to an area with low light pollution and to use a good camera, adding: “The best chance you have of seeing the lights is if you are away from street lights and areas with lots of light pollution, as any type of light does have a big effect.”

What causes the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights happen because of disturbances on the sun that pull on the Earth's magnetic field.

These electromagnetic waves launch electrons at high speeds into the Earth's atmosphere, creating the visible aurora.

The wavy patterns of light are caused by the lines of force in the Earth's magnetic field and the different colours are made by different gasses.

Green is characteristic of oxygen, whereas the purple, blue or pink are caused by nitrogen.

Where are the best places in Swindon and Wiltshire to see the Northern Lights?

The ideal conditions to spot the famed Northern Lights are dark and clear nights with minimal light pollution.

Wiltshire is home to several great spots for stargazing and we have compiled a list of the very best that you should visit tonight.

  • Ashbury Hill Ridgeway Car Park, Swindon
  • Blackett Observatory, Marlborough
  • Cley Hill Car Park, Warminster
  • Dinton Park, Dinton
  • Hackpen White Horse Car Park, Swindon
  • Pewsey Downs Car Park, Marlborough
  • White Sheet Hill, Warminster
  • Martin Down National Nature Reserve Car Park, Salisbury