Stargazers across the UK are in for a spectacular evening as a red alert has been issued, indicating a strong possibility of witnessing the breathtaking Northern Lights. Known scientifically as the Aurora Borealis, this natural light display paints the night sky with shimmering waves of colour, primarily green, pink, and red.

The vibrant hues are caused by charged particles from the Sun, known as solar winds, colliding with gases in the Earth’s upper atmosphere. Lancaster University has confirmed the red alert, stating, "It is likely that aurora will be visible by eye and camera from anywhere in the UK."

The university's chart indicates that geomagnetic activity has reached around 280 nanotesla, a unit measuring magnetic field strength. The Met Office has also noted that from tonight onwards, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are heightened, particularly in northern Scotland, with diminishing likelihood further south.

The national weather agency explained, "The aurora oval is expected to be at or near background levels at first. The onset of the fast wind from a large coronal hole, either on Wednesday 3rd or Thursday 4th December, is expected to enhance the auroral oval to lower latitudes." They added that a potential coronal mass ejection (CME) could further increase visibility, allowing the lights to be seen even further south, provided the skies are clear.

Typically, the best locations for viewing the Northern Lights are in areas closer to the polar regions, where the Earth’s magnetic field directs particles towards the poles. This makes Scotland, North England, North Wales, and Northern Ireland prime spots for observation. However, under severe space weather conditions, the lights can be visible throughout the UK.

For those who may miss this opportunity, winter 2026 is anticipated to be the best time in a decade for Aurora viewing, with January and February being particularly ideal. Next year will witness a once-in-a-decade phenomenon known as the solar maximum, characterised by heightened solar activity, expected to peak until March 2026 before declining until the mid-2030s.

Fortunately, one does not need to venture into the Arctic to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Numerous European destinations, including Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, offer excellent opportunities to witness this stunning natural display due to their proximity to the Arctic Circle.