Skies across the UK illuminated by the northern lights
Summary
The northern lights, also called the aurora borealis, were visible across the UK, including places as far south as Devon and Kent, during Friday and Saturday evenings. The Met Office said people could continue to see this natural light show in the sky until Tuesday if the skies remain clear.Key Facts
- The northern lights were seen across the UK, even far south regions like Devon, Hampshire, and Kent.
- This natural light display happens mostly near the Arctic Circle and northern parts of Scotland.
- The northern lights occur when charged particles from the sun hit gases in Earth’s upper atmosphere near magnetic poles.
- These particles come from the solar wind, which travels at about 1 million miles per hour.
- When the solar wind’s magnetic direction is opposite Earth’s, particles are directed toward the poles, causing lights in the sky.
- Oxygen in the atmosphere makes green and sometimes red lights, while nitrogen causes blue and purple colors.
- The Met Office expects aurora sightings to continue until Tuesday in Scotland and nearby areas if skies stay clear.
- Experts say 2026 may have many auroras because the sun is in a very active phase of its natural 11-year cycle.
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