SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia — Residents of Saint Petersburg were left in awe after witnessing a rare and mesmerizing display of light pillars lighting up the night sky from January 28 to 29, 2026.

Captured in stunning photographs and videos, the vertical shafts of yellow and orange light appeared to stretch toward the heavens, reflecting off icy air and city structures. According to local reports, the phenomenon occurs during extreme cold, when tiny ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere reflect light from street lamps and buildings, creating these luminous pillars.

Adding to the spectacle, some locals reported glimpses of the northern lights, or aurora borealis, appearing alongside the light pillars—a rare combination that has captivated both residents and online audiences. Clips of the phenomenon quickly went viral on social media, with viewers worldwide marveling at the ethereal beauty of Saint Petersburg’s winter skies.

While this event is a natural optical phenomenon, it serves as a reminder of how humans increasingly experience and share nature through digital platforms. The light pillars not only highlight the physics of ice crystals and light but also the human fascination with celestial beauty, especially when it appears unexpectedly in urban settings.

As stunning as these displays are, they also prompt reflection on how natural wonders are consumed and celebrated in the age of social media. Do we appreciate the science and rarity behind them, or are they merely fleeting content to share online? Are viral moments like Saint Petersburg’s light pillars changing the way we experience and value nature? (Larawan mula sa: AstrophotoBoloto)