There is an increased chance of seeing the Northern Lights all the way from Ireland this weekend. 

Saturday, September 23rd, marks the end of the Equinox which, weather permitting, increases the chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis across the country.

Astronomy Ireland Editor David Moore told Moncrieff the chance of seeing the Northern Lights from Ireland is “doubled” in September and October. 

“We had a big storm of the Aurora nights ago,” he said. 

“It was cloudy in Ireland, but they have incredible views around the rest of the world where skies were clear. 

“And we actually did see an Aurora last week [from Ireland] - I got pictures myself."

Mr Moore said the Northern Lights will be best viewed from rural areas in the northwest such as Donegal – but people in towns and cities also have a good chance of catching the lights. 

“Ireland a very small island and really you should be able to see it in Kerry and Donegal, especially if it's a strong display and they're the ones we all want to see,” he said. 

“I’ve also seen the lights from Dublin suburbs within a kilometre of the city centre. 

“The big displays everyone sees the minor ones, you're better off in the countryside.” 

Figure silhouetted beneath the northern lights in Donegal. Image: Gareth McCormack / Alamy Stock Photo

While clouds will block the lights, Mr Moore said a clearing for only a few minutes should give people a great view of Aurora Borealis. 

“I remember on the southside of Dublin 20 years, the sky was pink... that was Aurora,” he said. 

“We drove out to the northside of the city, and in Phibsborough, you could see the lights from over the rooftops, even with all the streetlights.” 

Stargazers can find updates on the Northern Lights in Ireland on Astronomy Ireland’s Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages. 

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Main image: Aurora Borealis over Glengesh pass in Ardara in Co. Donegal. Image: Wild Atlantic Way / Alamy Stock Photo.