The northern lights are expected to shine brighter and appear more frequently in 2025 than they have in over a decade, thanks to a peak in solar activity. This spectacular celestial phenomenon has already dazzled viewers across Europe in late 2024, with auroras visible much farther south than usual.
The vivid display, also known as the aurora borealis, occurs when charged particles from the sun—called the solar wind—interact with Earth’s atmosphere. Typically visible only near the Arctic Circle, the lights’ mesmerizing colors, ranging from green to magenta, have recently graced skies as far south as England, Slovenia, and even parts of Italy and Greece.
Why the Northern Lights Are More Active
The heightened activity is due to the sun nearing the peak of its 11-year solar cycle, during which its magnetic field flips completely. This peak, occurring between 2024 and 2025, has led to a surge in sunspots, a key indicator of solar activity.
In some cases, Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs)—large expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun’s atmosphere—cause the aurora’s typical Arctic zone to expand. This phenomenon allows the lights to appear at lower latitudes, offering rare opportunities for stargazers across Europe.
In November 2023, an unusually strong aurora spectacle lit up skies from southern England to Central Macedonia in Greece. Photographers captured breathtaking images of magenta and fuchsia hues, with the specific colors depending on the type of gas molecules and their altitude in the atmosphere.
Best Locations to Witness the Northern Lights in 2025
For those eager to experience this natural wonder, 2025 is an ideal year to plan an aurora-chasing trip. Traditional hotspots like Finland’s Lapland, Tromsø in Norway, Abisko in Sweden, and Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park remain top destinations. These locations offer clear skies, minimal light pollution, and proximity to other natural marvels, such as geysers and hot springs.
Jokkmokk in Sweden, recommended by travel experts, combines aurora sightings with insights into Sami culture and traditions. For those unable to venture far, the intensified solar activity means that northern lights may also be visible in countries like the UK, Germany, and Italy. International Dark Sky Parks, which preserve night skies free from artificial light, are excellent local options for aurora viewing.
A Unique Opportunity
With the sun entering a particularly active phase, the northern lights are poised to be more brilliant and widespread than they’ve been in years. Experts suggest aiming for the March and October equinoxes, when geomagnetic activity tends to peak. Whether from the Arctic Circle or closer to home, 2025 promises unforgettable opportunities to witness the ethereal beauty of the aurora borealis.
