LEH: Images of a rare redness in the skies were taken by the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) at Hanle and Merak, Ladakh, in an unexpected yet breathtaking celestial event. The unusual spectacle of red-colored auroral activity that began on November 5 was ascribed to a Stable Auroral Red (SAR) event, a rare atmospheric phenomenon that contrasts the more common green and blue curtains of light typically associated with auroras at higher latitudes with vivid red skies. A geomagnetic storm—a significant disruption of Earth’s magnetosphere brought on by a solar storm—caused the SAR incident. From 10 p.m. until midnight, the northern horizon was illuminated by the red aurora phenomenon, which peaked in intensity at 10:40 p.m.This remarkable occurrence was recorded using an All-sky Camera by the Indian Astrophysics Observatory (IAO), run by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru. These kinds of uncommon events can be captured on camera since it continuously scans the whole sphere of space. Merak, another place in Ladakh on the banks of Pangong Tso, was also able to catch this amazing show of stars. Higher mountains in the area largely blocked Merak’s view, which was known as the planned location for the National Large Solar Telescope. Hanle and Merak weren’t the only ones attending this SAR event. This unusual show was observed in several places worldwide, making it a worldwide astronomical event.Such an auroral emission at lower latitudes, as 33° North Ladakh, is an uncommon and exciting event, enhancing Hanle’s appeal as a centre for scientific research and astrotourism. Studying more of these auroral events from Hanle, especially during the Sun’s active periods, excited the IIA. Hanle remains a popular place for astronomy enthusiasts and scholars due to these uncommon celestial phenomena.
