Glasgow, UK Stargazing Forecast

Glasgow, UK (55.86°, -4.25°) · Updated 12:07 UTC
54
Mixed
high confidence ⓘ
high · Forecast lead time

Based on how far ahead tonight is, forecasts are most reliable within 24–48 hours.

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

Worth a short session
BEST 21:00–04:00 (7h)
Mostly clear skies with moderate moon interference. No real darkness tonight. The sun only reaches -15.3° (mid nautical), so faint objects will be tricky to see. Delta Aquariids meteor shower peaks tonight (ZHR ~25).
Sunset
20:27
Sunrise
04:19
Usable Hours
7/7
Moon
99%
Visible Planets
☿ Mercury10° E
♂ Mars29° E
♄ Saturn37° S
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Hour-by-hour scores · Planet rise/set & visibility · ISS & satellite passes · Moon detail · Full score breakdown · Aurora & observer profiles

Stargazing in Glasgow, UK

Glasgow's Bortle 7 skies transition quickly to darker conditions heading north into the Trossachs or west toward Argyll. The Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park is around 90 minutes south, and the Isle of Coll (Scotland's only Dark Sky Island) is reachable for dedicated trips. At 56°N, Glasgow is well placed for aurora, with Kp 5+ storms occasionally visible even from the city's northern suburbs. Rain is frequent, but cold winter highs can bring perfectly still, transparent nights.

Glasgow, UK Stargazing FAQ

Can you see the northern lights from Glasgow?∨
Yes — at 55.9°N, Glasgow has genuine aurora prospects. Kp 5+ storms produce visible displays, particularly from the city's northern suburbs or nearby hilltops with an unobstructed northern horizon.
Where is the best dark sky near Glasgow?∨
The Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park is about 90 minutes south, with Bortle 2-3 skies. Closer options include the Trossachs (40 minutes north) and Argyll to the west.
Is Glasgow good for stargazing?∨
Glasgow's frequent rain is the main challenge, but when clear skies arrive — particularly with cold winter high-pressure systems — conditions can be excellent. The city's quick access to dark Highland skies is a major advantage.

Stargazing guides

Is Tonight Good for Stargazing?

The answer depends on five things you can check right now.

Light Pollution & the Bortle Scale

How dark is your sky — and what difference does it make?

What Planets Are Visible Tonight?

Real visibility data for all 7 naked-eye and telescope planets, calculated for your location.

Best Stargazing Locations in the UK

Certified dark sky sites, hidden gems, and how to find the darkest skies near you.
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