As the holiday season approaches, Kiama locals and visitors may be treated to a celestial show, with a potential aurora lighting up the southern horizon between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. With clear skies, dark nights, and many escaping the light pollution of urban areas, the conditions are perfect for stargazing.

According to Monash University’s Associate Professor Michael Brown, 2024 has been an extraordinary year for aurora sightings in Australia, and the magic may not be over yet. “The Sun has been quiet recently, but solar activity could pick up over the summer holidays,” he said.

For Kiama residents fortunate enough to have an unobstructed view to the south, the darker holiday skies, with the Moon below the horizon, create a rare opportunity to catch an aurora. Associate Professor Brown advises checking the Bureau of Meteorology’s space weather page or aurora spotting social media groups for real-time updates on auroral activity.

The South Coast offers stunning night skies, and even if an aurora doesn’t appear, the festive season provides plenty to marvel at. Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn will grace the evening skies, with Venus shining particularly bright. For those with small telescopes, Saturn’s iconic rings are visible, making for a memorable holiday experience.

For aspiring astrophotographers, Associate Professor Brown suggests pointing your smartphone at the sky. “Smartphones can capture the colours and structures of an aurora that might not be visible to the naked eye,” he said.

Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a casual stargazer, the holiday season promises cosmic wonders for all. So, as you enjoy Christmas festivities, take a moment to step outside and look up—you might just witness the heavens putting on a show.

For the latest updates on auroras and stargazing tips, visit the Bureau of Meteorology’s space weather page or connect with local astronomy groups.

Tips for successful night sky photography

Seek dark locations: Areas around Saddleback Mountain or Bombo Headland offer minimal light pollution, ideal for stargazing and astrophotography.

Use a tripod: Stability is crucial for long-exposure shots to prevent blurriness.

Experiment with exposure: While Night mode adjusts automatically, manually tweaking exposure can yield different artistic effects.

Utilise third-party apps: Applications like NightCap Camera can provide additional control over exposure settings, enhancing your astrophotography experience.