Cyber-boffins at the University of York have launched a new website to help stargazers get the best views of one of the most mind-blowing of all natural phenomena.

The spectacular multi-coloured light show that is the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, is a common feature in the Arctic and far north, but people in Britain have to look at exactly the right time to stand any chance of catching a glimpse.

So to help out, scientists at the university's Physics department have created AuroraWatch UK (www.aurorawatch.york.ac.uk) - an information-packed website which tells skywatchers exactly when to look.

"Now is the best time for ten years to see the aurora in Britain," said Dr Ian Mann, head of the Magnetospheric Physics Group at the university.

"Aurora were seen all across Britain on April 6 this year, and there should be more to come. AuroraWatch UK will ensure that you don't miss out on the next British auroral light show."

The site offers unique real-time monitoring of the magnetic variations which accompany aurora.

During active times, an "aurora alert" e-mail will be sent to site subscribers. The alert can also be forwarded as a text message to those with mobile phones.

Intense aurora displays are generated following massive explosions on the sun, known as coronal mass ejections, which release magnetic clouds containing billions of tons of material travelling at around two million mph into space.

When the magnetic clouds reach the earth they can cause events called geomagnetic storms which contribute to severe space weather conditions and generate the multi-coloured phenomenon. This cycle of activity is at a peak right now and activity should remain high well into next year.

As well as generating beautiful displays, severe space weather can have significant effects on power and communications systems. Ironically, this includes mobile phone signals.