During the night of November 6, 2023, the Cáceres region of Extremadura experienced a display of vibrant colors that illuminated the night sky. These impressive red flashes were none other than the northern lights, which are normally seen in the polar regions, but this time they appear in a much more unexpected place. Curiously, this phenomenon was not limited only to Cáceres. It could also be witnessed in several regions of Central Europe, including parts of Italy, France, Slovakia, Ireland and Poland. The fact that these impressive lights ventured so far from their usual haunt raises intriguing questions. Why are there northern lights in Spain?
In this article we'll tell you why there are northern lights in Spain and how to see them.
Solar storms
The phenomenon of the aurora borealis on Earth can be attributed to solar storms, scientifically known as geomagnetic storms, that occur on our star. Located 150 million kilometers from our planet, the Sun continuously releases particles due to the greater pressure on its surface compared to the surrounding space. These particles escape effortlessly and gain speed, propelled by the influence of the Sun's magnetic field. Discover how Earth's magnetic field generates the aurora borealis to better understand this phenomenon.
In the vast expanse of space, there exists a phenomenon called the solar wind, a collection of charged particles known as ions. These particles embark on a journey, traversing the cosmos and eventually encountering various celestial bodies, including our own Earth. Traveling at incredible speeds, these particles hurtle through space at velocities ranging from 300 to 1.000 km/s. Remarkably, it takes them only two or three days to travel from their point of origin, seamlessly integrate into the solar wind, and finally reach our planet.
Northern Lights
As charged particles travel toward Earth, Earth's magnetic field becomes more significant. It acts like a magnet, capturing these particles in the outer regions of the atmosphere and drawing them toward the poles. In these regions, the atmosphere contains numerous oxygen and nitrogen molecules , providing ample opportunity for solar particles to interact with these elements. This interaction leads to the excitation and raising of energy levels in these molecules.
In a matter of just millionths of a second, the process occurs. However, in that short period of time, the highly unstable oxygen and nitrogen molecules quickly return to their fundamental states, become de-excited, and give up the energy acquired in the form of photons, the particles responsible for generating light. The coloration of the sky is determined by the wavelength and intensity of these emitted photons, giving rise to various tones that color our vision.
The reason why the Northern Lights typically occur in the polar regions of our planet is due to the interaction of the magnetic field with the solar wind, which draws it towards the poles . As a result, it is in these regions where particles encounter molecules, causing them to become excited and resulting in a vibrant display of colors in the sky.
Why are there northern lights in Spain?
The reason for the appearance of the Northern Lights in unexpected locations is due to a significant solar storm, specifically a powerful geomagnetic storm, that occurred over the weekend. During this event, the Sun undergoes strong magnetic reconnection processes that alter the arrangement of solar material and lead to a greater release of particles, as well as a moderate amount of plasma. Northern Lights in Spain: a rare spectacle that could happen again.
The combination of these factors generates a solar wind with a higher density than usual. When this solar wind reaches Earth, it exhibits a greater capacity to interact with the magnetic field , producing a slight modification and preventing the complete redirection of charged particles toward the polar regions. Consequently, these particles can persist in different sections of the atmosphere, where they can interact with oxygen and nitrogen molecules, ultimately producing auroras in regions far from the poles.
Should we be worried about the potential dangers posed by a powerful geomagnetic storm? There's no need to panic. It's a natural occurrence for the Sun's activity to fluctuate over time. This variability is attributed to solar cycles, which typically last between 10 and 12 years. As we approach the end of the current solar cycle, solar activity is expected to intensify. In fact, the peak of this cycle is predicted to occur in 2025. Therefore, the presence of strong solar winds is perfectly normal. Similar phenomena are very likely to occur in the coming years as we near the end of the solar cycle.
When to see them?
From late August until spring 2025, people can enjoy the mesmerizing display of this celestial phenomenon. However, the winter months, from October to March, will undoubtedly provide the most optimal viewing conditions. For an astonishing 200 nights a year, the Northern Lights will perform graceful acrobatics across the sky, enchanting the fortunate souls who witness this breathtaking spectacle.
To witness the spectacle of the Northern Lights, you must escape the confines of light pollution and venture to northern regions of the country where the night sky remains untouched by artificial light. Optimal locations for this ethereal experience include Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, the Basque Country, and Navarre, where the unique combination of geography and climate creates ideal viewing conditions. The phenomenon will also reappear in Extremadura.
A useful tool for identifying areas with minimal light pollution is the Light Pollution Map , which highlights specific locations, such as the coastal region between Elantxobe and Ondarroa in Bizkaia.
To see the Northern Lights in Spain, you have to be very patient. Keep in mind that they're not easily visible, especially in our area. I hope this information helps you learn more about why you see the Northern Lights in Spain and how to view them.
