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Solar eruptions drive UK aurora sightings through Tuesday

By Drooid · Oct 11, 2026, 9:59 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Solar eruptions triggered the Northern Lights to illuminate skies across the United Kingdom on Saturday night.
The Met Office said clear-sky aurora sightings could continue until Tuesday.
Geomagnetic activity peaked at 600 nanotesla, allowing nationwide visibility.
The display reached Devon, Hampshire, Kent and Salisbury, a rare southern sighting.
Scientists noted 2026 is a peak aurora year as the Sun enters a heightened 11-year cycle.

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Story summary

Solar eruptions triggered the Northern Lights to illuminate skies across the United Kingdom on Saturday night.
The Met Office said clear-sky aurora sightings could continue until Tuesday.
Geomagnetic activity peaked at 600 nanotesla, allowing nationwide visibility.
The display reached Devon, Hampshire, Kent and Salisbury, a rare southern sighting.
Scientists noted 2026 is a peak aurora year as the Sun enters a heightened 11-year cycle.