Mirrie Dancers

Shetland's, Mirrie Dancers...

For most, these these wonderous events are referred to as the Northern Lights. Whereas, here, in Shetland we have our very own special name for them, the Mirrie Dancers. It's no wonder, we have our own special name for them... As we have one of the best seats in Britain for viewing this winter spectacular. Quite frequently, they are a regular sight on clear, cold, winter nights.

Even though they are not guaranteed, the night skies themselves give some of the best star gazing in the UK.

What is the Aurota Borealis?

‘The Aurora borealis is an incredible light show caused by collisions between electrically charged particles. These particles are released from the sun that enter the earth's atmosphere and collide with gases such as oxygen and nitrogen. The lights are seen around the magnetic poles of the northern and southern hemispheres.'

The Mirrie Dancers as this so well describes their flitting and flickering as they dance on the night skies. If you think it is going too far to imbue the lights themselves with feelings...

Then I think it is fair to say, that we ourselves are left astounded and humbled by their beauty. It is definitely recommended to have a pair of binoculars when visiting in the Shetland. Not only for the starry night skies but also for the bird and sea life you may wish to bring into clearer focus.

Take a peek around Shetland through it's webcams...

Last but not least, why not take a peek at the Shetland Webcams for live action of the Mirrie Dancers!Checkout, Shetland Aurora Hunter or join Shetland on Camera on Facebook to see more tantalizing images…

Who could resist?