Northern Lights in Ireland 2024-2025

Ireland's latitude is roughly between the 52nd and 55th parallels, which is beyond the so-called Aurora zone around the magnetic poles. However, when the Kp index that measures the strength of geomagnetic activity is high enough, the whole country becomes a good place to see the Northern Lights. However, there could be clouded skies, and big cities experience light pollution, so you'll need all the luck you can get to witness the beautiful phenomenon. To increase your chances, you'd want to go as far out of the city as possible and, of course, head in the northern direction.

When is the best time to see northern lights?

Northern lights in Ireland are usually visible from 9 pm to 1 am during the period from September through March. The time of fall, winter, and spring equinoxes usually feature more frequent auroras due to increased geomagnetic activity. So check the websites for the Kp index (you are looking for numbers over 5 to be able to see the aurora in Ireland) and wait for the sky to be clear of clouds.

Aurora Borealis Forecast

Forecasting the aurora borealis can be challenging, with predictions often available only a few days in advance. Despite the uncertainty, checking official prediction websites can increase your chances of witnessing this mesmerizing natural phenomenon. Check the websites of the NOAA/NWS Space Weather Prediction Center, University of Alaska Fairbanks, which publish aurora forecasts. The key is to look for a forecasted Kp index of four or higher.

Where can you see Northern Lights in Ireland?

Donegal

Donegal County in northwestern Ireland, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, offers stunning historical castles, rugged coastlines, lakes, and mountains that are ideal for aurora hunting. Tra na Rossan Beach on the Rosguill Peninsula is well-positioned, with minimal light pollution along the northern headlands. The Inishowen Peninsula provides several excellent spots for viewing the Northern Lights. Malin Head, the northernmost point in the country, is particularly favorable for aurora sightings. Dunree Head also offers great views and features the Dunree Fort, a museum, and several nature walks alongside a picturesque bay. Glencolumbkille on the Slieve League Peninsula is another prime location for experiencing the aurora. Fanad Head, a smaller peninsula in County Donegal, is perfectly situated on Ireland's northern coast. Its quiet atmosphere, with minimal light pollution due to the few small villages in the area, makes it an excellent spot for watching the Northern Lights. The region also boasts beautiful natural features, including lakes, loughs, and a scenic coastline.

Sligo

In recent years, there have been regular sightings of the Northern Lights in Sligo, particularly from the Mullaghmore Peninsula. Mullaghmore is a small peninsula just a short drive from Sligo Town, offering excellent northward viewpoints. Although the visibility of the aurora here may not be as optimal as in Donegal, Mullaghmore, with its scenic views and the prominent Ben Bulben mountain, remains a good spot for Northern Lights sightings. Located south of Donegal, it is also a popular vacation destination in the summer.

Mayo

The Mullet Peninsula, also known as the Erris Peninsula after its northernmost point, Erris Head, is a popular destination for aurora chasers. The town of Belmullet, situated between Blacksod Bay and Broadhaven Bay, is a well-known local spot for Northern Lights viewing. Downpatrick Head, another excellent location for aurora watching, is situated on a small peninsula with a rugged coast and isolated setting. It is the northernmost point of County Mayo and offers great northern-facing views.

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, the Northern Lights are often visible from the Antrim Coast, with popular spots including Dunluce Castle, the Giant’s Causeway, and Whiterocks Beach. Aurora Borealis has also been observed in parts of County Tyrone.

Tips for catching Northern Lights

If you’ve missed the Northern Lights before, keep in mind they don’t need to be directly overhead and can be visible from over 600 miles away. To improve your chances, escape city lights and obstructions, look north a few hours after sunset, and watch for colors like green, pink, and red. The colors are often most vivid around midnight. Modern smartphones, such as the iPhone 14, can capture the aurora effectively, especially with night mode and a steady hand or tripod.