Belfast, UK Stargazing Forecast

Belfast, UK (54.6°, -5.93°) · Updated 12:54 UTC
24
Poor
high confidence
high · Forecast stability

Tonight's forecast has held steady across recent updates. We compare how much tonight's score has moved across our recent forecast updates, a score that's held steady is more trustworthy.

Confidence reflects how trustworthy the forecast is, it doesn't change the score.

Probably skip tonight
Mostly cloudy. No real darkness tonight. The sun only reaches -15.4° (mid nautical), so faint objects will be tricky to see. High dew risk, so optics will fog without dew heaters.
Sunset
20:36
Sunrise
04:24
Usable Hours
0/7
Moon
85%
Visible Planets
♀ Venus11° W
♂ Mars27° E
♄ Saturn38° S
Open Full Belfast, UK Forecast →
Hour-by-hour scores · Planet rise/set & visibility · ISS & satellite passes · Moon detail · Full score breakdown · Aurora & observer profiles

Stargazing in Belfast, UK

Belfast has moderate Bortle 5–6 light pollution that clears rapidly outside the city. The Sperrins, just 50 minutes west, and the Causeway Coast offer Bortle 3–4 darkness, while OM Dark Sky Park near Davagh Forest is Northern Ireland's first designated Dark Sky Park. At 54.6°N, Belfast is excellent for aurora — Kp 4+ storms regularly produce visible displays to the north. Atlantic weather means frequent cloud, but rapid clearances and crystal-clear post-frontal air are common.

Belfast, UK Stargazing FAQ

Can you see the northern lights from Belfast?
Yes — Belfast's latitude of 54.6°N gives it genuine aurora prospects. Kp 4+ storms regularly produce visible displays on the northern horizon, and stronger events can fill the sky. The Causeway Coast is an excellent nearby spot for aurora viewing.
Where is the best place to stargaze near Belfast?
OM Dark Sky Park in Davagh Forest is about 50 minutes west and is Northern Ireland's first designated Dark Sky Park. The Sperrins and Causeway Coast also offer Bortle 3-4 darkness.
What planets can I see from Belfast tonight?
Planet visibility changes throughout the year — check the ClearSkys forecast for Belfast to see which planets are above the horizon tonight, along with their peak altitude and best viewing times.