Sky

Cloud Cover

Live cloud map for UK aurora watchers. Find clear-sky windows before heading out.

What to look for

Dark (low-coverage) areas on the map indicate clear skies. Aim for less than 30% cloud cover at your location for a good chance of seeing aurora.

Best viewing regions

Scotland, northern England, and Northern Ireland typically have the best combination of northern latitude and clear nights, but gaps in cloud can appear anywhere.

Timing

Aurora is most active around local midnight. Check cloud cover for a 2 to 3 hour window centred on midnight for the best chance of a clear view.

Reading the map

Transparent / darkClear sky, ideal conditions for aurora

Light grey / faint whitePartial cloud, aurora may still be visible through gaps

Bright whiteHeavy overcast, aurora blocked. Check again later

Moving white massActive cloud front, look for the trailing clear area behind it