One student, thrilled to catch the aurora on October 10th, had been left disappointed by cloud cover during a May trip to Whitley Bay with the same goal. “I was absolutely buzzing to catch the aurora,” the student said after the successful October outing.
"I was absolutely buzzing to catch the aurora"
For those eager to capture an Instagram-worthy shot of the Northern Lights, there are a few things to keep in mind. Clear, dark skies with low light pollution are essential. It’s also helpful to monitor the weather forecast and keep an eye on the Kp index—a measurement of geomagnetic activity that ranges from 0 to 9.
A higher Kp index means a stronger chance of seeing the aurora as charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere to produce those radiant ripples of light. Apps like AuroraWatch can help you track geomagnetic activity and notify you when a display is likely.
Keeping these apps handy increases your chances of being at the right place at the right time.
According to VisitEngland, the Northumberland National Park offers the best vantage point for aurora viewing in the northeast. With its expansive dark skies, it’s a haven for stargazers and aurora enthusiasts alike. However, the Northern Lights have also been enjoyed from more accessible spots closer to the city, such as Leazes Park.
Leazes Park, just a short walk from Newcastle city centre, has surprised many with its aurora displays despite the light pollution from the surrounding urban area. For those willing to venture a bit farther, Whitley Bay offers scenic coastal views that can provide the perfect backdrop for the dancing lights.
Whether from the quiet beauty of Northumberland or an unexpected spot close to home, the sight of the aurora is always worth the wait and reminds us of the celestial wonders beyond the stars.
