Can You See the Northern Lights in Scotland in August?

If you are planning a trip to Scotland and wondering whether August is a good time to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, you have come to the right place. The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is a natural light display that is visible in the high latitude regions close to the Arctic and Antarctic. Scotland is one of the countries that can witness the Northern Lights, but is August the right time? Let’s explore.

Understanding Northern Lights

Before we dive into whether you can see Northern Lights in Scotland in August, let’s understand what they are. Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that occurs in the polar regions. The light show is caused by electrically charged particles from the sun that collide with the Earth’s magnetic field, creating multi-colored light in the night sky.

The Northern Lights are visible from September to mid-April, with the peak season being from December to February. During these months, the nights are longer, which means you have more time to see the lights. However, it is still possible to see the Northern Lights outside these months if conditions are favorable.

Is August the Right Time to See Northern Lights in Scotland?

August is not considered the ideal time to see the Northern Lights in Scotland. This is because August falls within the summer months when the nights are short, and there is a lot of daylight. This reduces the chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis because the sky needs to be dark to appreciate the amazing light show.

Moreover, even though Scotland is located in the high latitude region, it is still at a lower latitude than countries like Iceland and Norway where the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are higher. However, this does not completely rule out the possibility of witnessing the light show in Scotland during August.

Where to See the Northern Lights in Scotland

If you are planning to visit Scotland during August and are keen on seeing the Northern Lights, we recommend that you head to the Northern parts of Scotland. The areas closer to the Arctic Circle have a relatively higher chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis. Here are some of the top places to catch the lights show in Scotland:

Shetland Islands

The Shetland Islands, located off the North Coast of Scotland, is one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights in Scotland. The location of the islands, close to the Arctic Circle, provides an excellent vantage point to see the lights if conditions are favorable.

Orkney Islands

The Orkney Islands, situated to the North-East of mainland Scotland, is another great location to see the light show. The islands generally have clear skies which increase the chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Moreover, Orkney has a rich Viking history which makes it an excellent location for stargazing.

Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands is one of the most scenic locations in Scotland and offers an excellent view of the sky. Additionally, the high elevations of the mountains provide a better vantage point for the Northern Lights.

The Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Scotland

If you are determined to see the Northern Lights in Scotland, it is recommended that you plan your visit between September to mid-April. During this time, the nights are longer, allowing you more time to see the lights. Moreover, the months of December to February are considered the peak season for the Northern Lights, with increased solar activity that enhances the light show.

The best time to view the Aurora Borealis is between 9 pm to 2 am when the sky is the darkest. This is why it is essential that the location where you plan to view the lights does not have any nearby light pollution.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, it is technically possible to see the Northern Lights in Scotland in August, but the chances are not very high. So, if witnessing the Aurora Borealis is a prime reason for your visit to Scotland, it is best to plan your trip between September to mid-April. Additionally, visiting Northern Scotland, particularly the Shetland Islands, Orkney Islands, and Scottish Highlands, increases the chances of seeing this breathtaking natural phenomenon.

Remember to check the weather forecast, solar activity, and the ‘Aurora Forecast’ for more information on the Northern Lights as it will increase the chances of seeing the light show. Lastly, Scotland has a lot to offer even if you don’t get to see the Northern Lights. Plan your itinerary accordingly and enjoy the beautiful country.