Melbourne woman shocked by unexpected event on Air New Zealand flight
- Rachel Kennedy, an Australian woman, witnessed the Aurora Australis while flying from Melbourne to Christchurch.
- She had prepared for the sight by changing her seat and following Aurora forecasts.
- Her stunning photos shared on social media received widespread admiration and sparked interest in the phenomenon.
On a recent Air New Zealand flight from Melbourne to Christchurch, Australian passenger Rachel Kennedy experienced a remarkable event when she witnessed the Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights. This natural light display, caused by the interaction of solar wind with Earth's magnetic field, creates stunning visual phenomena in the sky. Kennedy had strategically chosen her seat on the right side of the plane and had been monitoring Aurora forecasts leading up to her flight. Initially, her photos captured only a green arc, but the situation changed dramatically when the captain turned off the cabin lights. This allowed her to take breathtaking images of the light display, which she promptly shared on the Facebook page 'Aurora Australis.' Her photos garnered significant attention, with many users expressing their awe and admiration for the stunning visuals. The Aurora Australis can be seen throughout the year, but it is most visible during the equinoxes in March and September, when conditions are optimal for viewing. The Bureau of Meteorology provides forecasts and tips for those interested in witnessing this phenomenon, emphasizing the need for dark skies and minimal light pollution. Kennedy's experience highlights the beauty of natural phenomena and the excitement of capturing such moments. Her stunning photographs not only showcased the Aurora Australis but also inspired others to seek out similar experiences, demonstrating the power of social media in sharing awe-inspiring events.