When the Aurora Dances Over Mallorca: How to Experience the Sky Ballet

When the North Drops By for a Short Visit

Imagine it like a small miracle: green-pink-violet curtains rippling across the Mallorcan sky. Between October 20 and 29 solar activity rises slightly — enough that the aurora occasionally reaches us, as reported by Cuando la Aurora llega a Mallorca: así verás el baile celestial. Evenings like these are rare. That's precisely why it's worth being prepared: the right spot, the right time and a little patience.

Why the Lights Can Reach This Far

In short: the sun hurls energetic particles into space. When they hit oxygen and nitrogen in our upper atmosphere, light is produced. Usually the show takes place far to the north, but during strong geomagnetic storms the auroral oval expands. Then all you need is a dark, clear night sky — and Mallorca is on the guest list.

The Best Spots on the Island

Bright street lights are the natural enemy of any skywatching. Look for quieter, darker places: the ridges of the Serra de Tramuntana, the northern tip at Cap de Formentor, viewpoints near Sóller or the Puig de Galatzó. The latter has no parking garages, only pine trees, the rustle of the wind and occasionally an owl — perfect ingredients. The Mirador Es Colomer also offers the sound of the sea and an unobstructed view to the north. Small parking lots and narrow roads? Better arrive early and park respectfully.

When to Go Out and How to Dress

Head out after 10:00 PM; the darkness then usually offers the best view. October evenings turn chilly: a warm jacket, hat, blanket and sturdy shoes are essential. Pack a thermos with a hot drink — a little like Paco popping round the corner for his coffee, dog Tim lying obediently at his feet and the stars slowly appearing. Eyes take about 20 minutes to adapt to the dark; so avoid white light. A red-light torch is worth its weight in gold.

What You Will Likely See and How to Photograph It

It usually starts as a pale, greenish veil. If the geomagnetic storm intensifies, pink or violet tones may appear. With the naked eye the scene feels most authentic; binoculars offer little advantage. For photos: a stable tripod, a wide aperture (low f-number), ISO between 1600 and 3200 and exposure times from 8 to 20 seconds — depending on the intensity and movement of the bands. Modern phones can surprise but are often noisy; test different settings and keep batteries warm, as cold quickly reduces performance.

What to Check Before You Go

Check an aurora forecast service, such as the NOAA aurora forecast, and the local weather report (for example AEMET weather forecasts) shortly before you set off. For beginners: a Kp-index explanation at NOAA of 6 or higher significantly increases the chances. A clear view to the north is important; a hill helps, but darkness counts most. And: respect the island — no litter, don't block narrow paths, keep quiet. If only the wind sings, a distant roll of waves and perhaps a dog barking, the night has already won. In such moments even faint, whispering bands can become visible.

An Evening to Remember

Whether the aurora appears or not — the outing is worthwhile for the silence, the clear air and a starry sky that feels especially deep in October. Pack a blanket and a thermos, find a dark mirador, and let yourself be surprised. If the sky ballet comes, it will be one of those nights you'll happily recount later. And if not: Palma will wake up loud and warm the next morning — but the memory of the quiet night will remain.