Northern lights illuminate the skies of Portugal and Spain on October 10, 2024

On the night of October 10, 2024, a rare and stunning spectacle graced the skies of several regions in Portugal and Spain: the northern lights, or aurora borealis. Typically seen in northern latitudes, such as the Nordic countries, this phenomenon was made possible due to an intense solar storm that affected the Earth’s magnetic field, allowing the light show to be visible much further south than usual.

What is the aurora borealis?

The aurora borealis is an optical phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from a solar storm interact with Earth’s atmosphere. The planet’s magnetic field channels these particles toward the polar regions, where they collide with atmospheric gases, producing colorful lights that spread across the night sky. This display is known for its bright streaks of green, red, pink, and violet lights, creating a mesmerizing dance that fascinates anyone lucky enough to witness it.

Solar storm and its impact

On October 10, 2024, a particularly intense solar storm hit Earth’s magnetic field, creating ideal conditions for viewing the northern lights in unusual regions. In Portugal, locations such as Seia, Macedo de Cavaleiros, Castelo Branco, and the Serra da Estrela were privileged with this phenomenon. These areas, not typically associated with auroras, offered an extraordinary sight as the night sky glowed with pink and green hues.

The geomagnetic storm responsible for this aurora was caused by a massive solar explosion, which hurled a significant amount of charged particles toward Earth. While such events enable auroras, they can also disrupt communication and navigation systems, such as satellites and electrical grids, although no major issues were reported on this occasion.

Aurora borealis in the Iberian Peninsula

The occurrence of the aurora borealis in lower latitudes, like the Iberian Peninsula, is extremely rare. However, exceptional solar events like the one in October 2024 allow this phenomenon to be seen in areas such as northern Portugal and parts of Spain, including Galicia and even the island of Mallorca. Observers in cities like Vigo and Póvoa de Varzim were treated to this natural spectacle, transforming the sky into a magical and unforgettable sight.

The last time a northern lights display of this intensity was recorded in the Iberian Peninsula was in the spring of 2024, also during intense solar activity. However, the October event stood out for its wide reach and the brightness of the lights, which filled the sky for several hours.

Social and economic impact

Beyond the breathtaking visual impact, the aurora borealis has a significant social and economic impact in the regions where it occurs. For residents of areas where the phenomenon is common, such as northern Norway and Sweden, auroras are a major tourist attraction. The city of Tromsø, for example, receives thousands of tourists every year who travel specifically to witness the northern lights.

In Portugal and Spain, although northern lights are extremely rare, events like the one on October 10, 2024, attracted curious onlookers and astronomy enthusiasts. Many locals and tourists flocked to elevated viewing spots, such as mountains and areas with little light pollution, hoping to catch a glimpse of the phenomenon. In areas like Serra da Estrela, one of Portugal’s highest points, the presence of tourists significantly increased on the nights leading up to the event.

The phenomenon in detail

The aurora borealis spectacle in the Iberian Peninsula was marked by a vibrant and constantly changing palette of colors. Green lights, caused by the interaction of solar particles with oxygen at altitudes of up to 100 km, dominated the sky, while red and pink lights, which occur at higher altitudes due to oxygen in the upper atmosphere, added a magical touch to the phenomenon.

In some areas, such as the Serra de Bornes in Trás-os-Montes, observers reported that the brightness of the lights was so intense it almost resembled sunrise. This level of intensity is rare in regions at such low latitudes, making the event even more special.

Timeline of events

• October 10, 2024, 6:00 PM: Solar storm hits Earth, causing geomagnetic disturbances.
• October 10, 2024, 8:00 PM: First reports of northern lights in the Iberian Peninsula, with images coming from Portugal and Spain.
• October 10, 2024, 11:00 PM: Peak viewing times in mountainous regions of Portugal and northern Spain.
• October 11, 2024, 2:00 AM: The phenomenon begins to lose intensity, though still visible in some areas until dawn.

The future of auroras in lower latitudes

With increased solar activity in recent years, experts predict that events like the one in October 2024 may become more frequent. The current solar cycle, which is at its peak, favors the formation of intense solar storms, increasing the chances of aurora sightings in southern regions.

Additionally, interest in northern light viewing has grown significantly, with apps and websites offering predictions on when and where the phenomenon will be visible. This has encouraged a new generation of aurora hunters, willing to travel great distances in search of the lights.

The northern lights of October 10, 2024, will be remembered as one of the most spectacular natural events of the year, not only for their rare appearance in such southern regions but also for the intensity of the lights and the social impact they created. As solar activity increases, the hope of seeing more auroras in unexpected locations grows, bringing with it the magic and wonder that only nature can provide.