The spectacle of the Northern Lights has transformed from a rare and fleeting marvel into one of the United Kingdom’s most sought-after natural experiences, with experts predicting that 2026 will mark a peak period for aurora activity. Once considered a once-in-a-lifetime sighting for most Britons, the shimmering display of greens, reds and purples across the night sky is now appearing more frequently, fueling growing public fascination and a surge in amateur photography.
The increase in aurora visibility is linked to the Sun’s natural 11-year activity cycle. According to Prof Jim Wild of Lancaster University and a member of the AuroraWatch UK team, the Sun is currently in a heightened phase of activity, improving the likelihood of geomagnetic storms that trigger the aurora borealis. He said statistically this period offers the strongest chance to witness the phenomenon, although activity is expected to gradually decline in the coming years as the Sun approaches its minimum phase.
For seasoned enthusiasts like Highland-based photographer Gary Macleod, the magic of the aurora has never diminished. Living in Tongue in the Scottish Highlands, Macleod has spent more than three decades capturing the lights on camera. He recalls seeing the display for the first time at the age of eight, describing the moment as unforgettable. What began as wonder has evolved into lifelong passion. He says that even now he sometimes puts down his camera simply to watch, believing that memory can be more powerful than any photograph.
The aurora, often nicknamed the “merry dancers” in Scotland, can erupt dramatically, shifting from a faint shimmer into sweeping curtains of light in seconds. Macleod recently shared the experience with his eldest daughter, who captured her first images earlier this year. He described her immediate enthusiasm as proof of how quickly the spectacle can “hook” a viewer, adding that passing on his knowledge has deepened his own appreciation.
While sightings have become more frequent, experts caution that aurora viewing remains dependent on timing and weather. The darker months of autumn and winter provide longer hours of night, increasing opportunities, but clear skies are essential. A calm, moonless evening with minimal cloud cover offers optimal conditions. Prof Catherine Heymans, Scotland’s Astronomer Royal, notes that precise forecasting remains difficult and that luck often plays a role in catching a display.
Geography also matters. Scotland remains the UK’s prime viewing location due to its northern latitude. Wild explains that Scotland is typically “on the front line,” with particularly intense solar activity required for the lights to reach England. Areas free from light pollution significantly improve visibility. Recognised dark sky locations such as Galloway Forest Park, the Isle of Rum, and parts of Shetland offer ideal conditions, though even some urban coastal spots like Portobello Beach in Edinburgh can provide clear views when facing north.
Modern technology has also changed how people engage with the aurora. Free mobile apps including AuroraWatch UKand Glendale provide real-time alerts when solar activity increases. Experts recommend using night mode on smartphones to confirm sightings, as camera sensors are often more sensitive to green and red wavelengths than the human eye in darkness. However, they advise limiting screen exposure to preserve night vision.
Scientifically, the vivid colours occur when charged solar particles collide with gases in Earth’s atmosphere. Oxygen typically produces the most common green glow, while nitrogen contributes to reds and purples. Displays can rapidly evolve from faint arcs to horizon-spanning curtains, offering what many describe as a breathtaking and almost otherworldly experience.
With solar activity nearing its peak, skywatchers across the UK are preparing for what could be one of the most active aurora seasons in years, hoping for clear skies and a glimpse of nature’s most captivating light show.
