The northern lights could be visible across UK skies this evening (July 30) – but will they be visible in Lancashire?

According to the Met Office the phenomenon, also known as the aurora borealis, is set to be visible on tonight and into the early hours of Wednesday morning.

This is after coronal mass ejection (eruptions from the sun which cause northern lights on earth) are set to hit the earth.

According to the Met Office space weather forecast, there is a geomagnetic storm watch in place from 9pm tonight until 9pm on Wednesday.

The Lancashire Telegraph asked the Met Office if the Northern Lights could be seen across Lancashire. It said the phenomenon could be “impeded by limited hours of darkness” but the best chance of seeing them is in Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England.

Across Lancashire, it’s set to be a clear night free of cloud coverage meaning people in the county have a better chance of seeing the lights.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “While there’s a chance of a coronal mass ejection reaching Earth in the early hours of Wednesday morning, any aurora sightings would only be likely in parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England. Even here, would be impeded by limited hours of darkness.

“Any further CME arrivals this week are forecast to be weaker than the one anticipated on Wednesday morning.”

Where is the best place to see the northern lights in Lancashire?


There are some excellent star gazing spots and dark sky discovery sites across Lancashire – particularly in the Forest of Bowland. Skies here have been recognized as some of the darkest in England and granted official status as Dark Sky Discovery Sites.

1. Forest of Bowland: Light pollution from the county's urban sprawl means there is diminishing territory where astronomers can catch astronomical events.

Bowland has no fewer than five officially designated 'dark skies' spots across the forest - Beacon Fell Country Park, Gisburn Forest Hub, Slaidburn village car park, the Crook o’ Lune Picnic Site and Clerk Laithe Lodge guest house at Newton-in-Bowland.

2. Clitheroe Castle

Clitheroe Castle is located in the heart of the Ribble Valley and is one of the best places for stargazing in East Lancashire.

With its elevated position, the castle offers an uninterrupted view of the night sky, and it's a popular spot for local astronomy groups.

The castle often hosts stargazing events, so be sure to check their website for upcoming dates.

3. Pendle Hill

Pendle Hill is a popular spot for hiking and walking, but it's also a great place for stargazing.

 

The hill offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and on a clear night, you can see the Milky Way and other celestial wonders. Just be sure to bring warm clothing, as it can get chilly at the top, and due to the uneven terrain of the hill it would not be advised ascending or descending in darkness unless an experienced hiker.

4. Tockholes Plantation

Tockholes Plantation is a woodland area located just outside of  Blackburn  that is perfect for stargazing.

The plantation is far away from the city lights, and it offers a dark and peaceful atmosphere for watching the stars.

It's a great spot for a quiet night out with friends or family, and there are several hiking trails in the area for daytime exploration.