"Still, the flare was associated with a CME and analyses and model ... of solar materials such as gas, is likely to hit Earth between now and Saturday — which could trigger bright aurora displays.

The colors and structure of the aurora appear differently depending on the latitude and altitude. Auroras are created when solar particles and plasma temporarily disturb Earth’s magnetosphere.

Aurora watchers could be in for a treat after the Sun blasted off a huge X-class flare this week. A sunspot region unleashed an X-class solar flare on Thursday (3 Oct), which are the most powerful.

Aurora watchers could be in for a treat after the Sun blasted off a huge X-class flare this week. A sunspot region unleashed an X-class solar flare on Thursday (3 Oct), which are the most powerful.