> why do people watch, what is the appeal

Herself will also be glued to that channel*, largely for the commentary. The late great Terry Wogan, who used to do the Eurovision commentary, gave it the level of respect it deserves, but admitted he could only do it when three sheets to the wind; Graham Norton has inherited the mantle in full measure, though possibly not the case of poitín.

I'll look forward to going outside afterwards to see if the aurora's visible.

* Sigh, but I've seen that episode of the Bletchely Circle before.