Residents across York, North Yorkshire, witnessed a rare and vivid display of the Northern Lights on the night of February 15, 2026. The atmospheric event brought bright rays of red, yellow, and purple to the night sky, which were visible even from within the city.
The display was caused by a large burst of solar energy that hit the magnetic field of the Earth. According to the Met Office, this event happened during a peak in the sun’s natural 11-year activity cycle.
Many people travelled to nearby dark sky areas to get a better view away from city lights. The North York Moors National Park Authority manages several designated spots that served as primary hubs for local photographers during the event.
Local groups are using the sighting to highlight the importance of protecting views of the night sky from light pollution. Experts at York St John University are currently leading a campaign to make York an official Dark Sky City.
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