Susielou

If I were to go to Scotland in the hope of seeing the `Northern Lights`where would that be?
I know all the scientific stuff ,but having tried both Norway and Iceland to no avail,(I reckon its just luck,) so I`m setting my sights on Scotland.
My friends and family think I`m nuts to keep trying,if they want to see them they will go wherever I not! and my son is worried about his inheritance ( joking).
I started this `quest` in 2010,those cold countries are murder on the bank balance!
I have heard that they are often seen in Scotland......really??????

Rubicund

As you obviously know, it's not guaranteed anywhere, but try this info:

http://www.visitscotland.com/about/n...orthern-lights

Gordon_R

It's not uncommon the see the Northern Lights in the far north of Scotland but your chances of seeing anything will depend on several factors, not least clear skies which often don't coincide with the auroral events. You'll also need clear unobstructed access to the northern horizon and be in dark skies away from the glow of towns and cities. I've only ever seen it once while in Scotland - impressive though.

I personally wouldn't travel a great distance specifically just to try and see the Northern Lights, but if I did, it would be to the higher latitudes in Iceland or northern Norway/Sweden, two of which you've already tried without success.

cwn

Saw a beautiful display in September in Fairbanks, Alaska several years ago.

Susielou

Thanks, it seems that Scotland is not an optimal location, maybe I`ll try Alaska or Canada.
given I live in the southern hemisphere travelling is my only option.

orinoco1968

I've lived on the north coast of Scotland for over 5 years and estimate I've seen 12-15 displays per year but I actively look for them and will get up in the middle of the night to see what's going on. It's difficult to predict, and actually much fainter than you might imagine as even a small amount of light pollution can make it difficult to see. You're always going to be at the mercy of the weather and if the sun isn't very active then there's little or no chance of a display.

If I was on your quest I'd pick a time from about mid-October onwards when there's plenty of hours of darkness, make sure it coincides with a time when the moon isn't going to be visible as this can ruin a display, and just hope the sun and weather play along.