Stargazers thought Santa "could be doing a test run” after capturing a mysterious trail of lights in the night sky above Durham. 

The long line of bright lights were captured by Charlotte and Rob Warne on Sunday (November 10) evening, just after 6pm. 

The duo believe they caught a glimpse of the Starlink satellites, which are part of a scheme from Elon Musk’s SpaceX company aiming to improve global internet coverage. 

Over the years, many people across Europe have posted pictures online baffled by the unique light display - and have speculated it could be everything from aliens to asteroids.

But the explanation could be much simpler than that - with FindStarlink.com suggesting that Starlink had good visibility in Durham at 6.10pm on November 10 - the exact time they took the image as they looked up. 

Elon Musk's Starlink is believed to have been spotted across DurhamElon Musk's Starlink is believed to have been spotted across Durham (Image: Charlotte and Rob Warne)

Space X first launched Starlink in 2019, which is a chain of about 5,000 satellites that form part of a massive network of 12,000 satellites.

The satellites are sent up into orbit and beam down broadband signals to areas without strong cable connections. 

The technology is currently being used as part of a UK government trial to provide rural homes and isolated areas with better internet service.

 

Will I be able to see Starlink again? 

FindStarlink.com suggests that there are some opportunities with good visibility over the next few days to catch a glimpse of the satellites.

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Here they are: 

November 11, 6.12pm - Look from west to south. 

Elevation (from horizon): start: 10°, max: 37°, end: 37°

November 12, 6.13pm - Look from west to south

Elevation (from horizon): start: 10°, max: 31°, end: 31°