Spain is about to offer an extraordinary spectacle for sky-watchers: the Northern Lights in Spain could soon illuminate the night sky. Usually seen in destinations like Norway, Iceland, or Finland, the aurora borealis may now be visible much closer to home thanks to exceptional solar activity.
If you’re wondering when and where to see the Northern Lights in Spain, here’s your complete guide for 2025.
When will the Northern Lights be visible in Spain?
Astronomers predict that between 20th and 29th October 2025, a geomagnetic storm could make the Northern Lights visible in parts of Spain. During this period, the Kp index — a measure of solar activity — could reach 6, creating the perfect conditions for an aurora borealis in Spain.
This rare event means that Spanish sky-watchers could witness the night sky glowing in shades of green, pink, and violet — usually reserved for the far north.
Best places to see the Northern Lights in Spain
To spot the Northern Lights in Spain, look for dark rural areas with clear skies. Northern regions such as:
- Galicia
- Asturias
- Cantabria
- Basque Country
- Navarra
…offer the highest chances of seeing this celestial show. Mountain areas like the Catalan and Aragonese Pyrenees are also ideal due to their altitude and clean air. In some inland locations, you might even see a faint reddish glow on the horizon.
Tips for best visibility:
- Look towards the north.
- Avoid city lights and light pollution.
- Be patient — the aurora can appear and disappear unpredictably.
Tips for observing the aurora borealis in Spain
You don’t need professional equipment to enjoy the Northern Lights in Spain 2025. Here’s how to make the most of your aurora-watching experience:
- Check the Kp index: The higher the value, the better the chance of seeing the aurora.
- Follow solar activity: Use apps and websites that provide real-time aurora alerts.
- Seek darkness: Let your eyes adjust to the night and avoid artificial lights.
- Capture the moment: Use a tripod and long-exposure settings to photograph the lights.
Even a brief glimpse of the aurora borealis in Spain is a magical experience, a reminder of the unpredictable beauty of nature.
Past Northern Lights sightings in Spain
Spain has occasionally witnessed this rare phenomenon. In May 2024, the skies lit up in green, pink, and violet tones, visible from cities like Lugo, Zaragoza, Tarragona, and Cádiz. Stunning images from that night went viral on social media and news outlets, marking one of Spain’s most memorable astronomical events in recent years.
Historically, the most notable aurora in Spain occurred during the Spanish Civil War in 1938. Such events remain rare, making each sighting a special occasion.
Why the sun can bring Northern Lights to Spain
The Sun goes through periods of intense activity, releasing charged particles that collide with Earth’s atmosphere. These collisions create the colourful light displays known as the aurora borealis.
While auroras usually appear near the poles, strong geomagnetic storms can extend the visibility to lower latitudes — including northern Spain. Even places that aren’t normally associated with aurora watching can occasionally witness this natural spectacle.
Recent studies on Northern Lights in Spain
Experts from AEMET (Spanish State Meteorological Agency), using data from the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), confirm that intense solar activity can bring auroras to Spain. Predicting these events not only allows enthusiasts to plan Northern Lights trips in Spain, but also helps monitor geomagnetic conditions that could affect technology on Earth.
Spain is ready to host a celestial event that is usually reserved for the far north. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or simply want a magical night under the stars, the Northern Lights in Spain 2025 promise a rare and unforgettable experience.