According a variety of science reports, an eruption on the sun's surface Sunday could lead to a spectacular light display over the next few days, particularly for those of us in the more northern latitudes. A sun that has been relatively quiet for some time is waking up and sending a blast of plasma toward earth, according to a space.com about the phenomenon known as a "coronal mass ejection."

 

(As long as you're sitting in front of the computer, don't miss this incredible image of the eruption captured by NASA.)

According to the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, aurora borealis activity should be moderate tonight, and active Wednesday and Thursday. And yes, even during summer you're able to view the show, according to the institute's Aurora Forecast.

"Weather permitting, active auroral displays will be visible overhead from Barrow to Anchorage and Juneau, and visible low on the horizon from King Salmon and Prince Rupert," states the forecast for Aug. 4 and 5.

If you're not sure the northern lights will be visible in your area, a few minutes snooping around on the institute's forecast page should help. Be sure to click on the "Can I see the aurora" and "Viewing the Aurora in the Northern Summer" tabs. Continue clicking on bold faced phrases and words and you'll get a few more details about viewing at specific latitudes and on upcoming dates.

Head outside and explore, and let us know what you see!

Contact Jill Burke at jill(at)alaskadispatch.com.