Autumn marks the start of one of the world’s most impressive natural spectacles: the Northern Lights season. During the colder months, as the nights lengthen and the skies darken in the north, Nordic countries like Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland become ideal settings for observing this celestial phenomenon. And although you should know that the Northern Lights are never 100% guaranteed, from October to March there is always a chance of finding them, and even more so during the months of December, January and February.
The image of how lights dance in the sky, creating curtains of green, pink or purple, is something that is hard to believe the first time you see it. And although it is certain that at this time social networks are starting to fill up with auroras captured in many different places – this week we even saw them in the Spanish sky following the passage of comet Tsuchinshan – ATLAS–, the truth is that it is not that simple Finding this phenomenon requires patience, knowledge and being in the right place at the right time.
How are the Northern Lights formed?
The Northern Lights, or Northern Lights, are the result of charged particles from the Sun interacting with Earth’s atmosphere. These particles, mainly electrons, are ejected during solar storms and, when they reach Earth, are captured by the Earth’s magnetic field. During their journey to the magnetic poles, the particles collide with gases in the atmosphere, creating the light emission we call auroras. Therefore, due to our planet’s magnetism, auroras are easier to see near the poles.
The color of the aurora depends on the gases involved and the height at which the interaction occurs. Green auroras, for example, are caused by oxygen at around 100 kilometers altitude, while red tones are caused by oxygen at higher altitudes. Nitrogen, on the other hand, produces blue and purple auroras. And although the phenomenon is best known in the northern hemisphere, there are also auroras australis, which can be observed in places like Antarctica, New Zealand or southern Argentina and Chile.
Tips for seeing the Northern Lights
Before you start “hunting” for the Northern Lights, it is important to take into account certain factors to maximize your chances of success:
- Climatic conditions. To see auroras, the sky must be clear. Clouds and rain can ruin any opportunity, so it’s important to follow local weather forecasts and be prepared to travel to find clearer skies.
- Stay away from artificial lights. Light pollution in cities is one of the biggest enemies of aurora chasers. It is essential to move away from urban areas and find dark places where the sky can be observed in its entirety. The wider your field of vision, the better.
- Appropriate equipment. Temperatures in the north can be freezing and even more so at night. Wearing appropriate clothing is essential to avoid suffering from the cold while patiently waiting for the lights to appear. Also, if you plan to photograph the Northern Lights, a tripod, a camera with a good aperture and a long exposure will be essential equipment. And keep in mind that cold weather causes the battery charge to drop quickly, so it’s a good idea to carry a spare.
- Applications and forecasts. There are now mobile applications that predict aurora activity and visibility in real time. They have become essential to avoid depending too much on luck and to be more precise in your search. In fact, you don’t have to be outside waiting for the sky to light up or not, but you can be in your home, next to a fireplace, and when the dawn alarm goes off, quickly go looking for him.
The best destinations to chase the Northern Lights
Known as the capital of the Arctic, Tromsø is one of the most popular destinations for viewing the Northern Lights. Located about 350 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, this Norwegian city offers ideal conditions for witnessing the celestial spectacle from September to April. Additionally, you can combine the search for the aurora with winter activities of all kinds, and even with whale watching excursions.
Tromsø is also famous for its relatively mild climate due to its northern location, which makes the experience more bearable, even in the dead of winter. Another advantage is the possibility of participating in organized “aurora hunting” tours which will take you each night to the best observation points depending on the weather conditions.
Abisko National Park in northern Sweden is renowned for offering exceptionally clear skies due to its geographical location. The phenomenon known as the “blue hole” is a local weather feature that allows Abisko’s skies to remain clear more often than in other nearby areas, greatly increasing your chances of seeing aurora.
This is the Aurora Sky Station, an observatory where scientists study the phenomenon and where tourists can enjoy an exceptional visual spectacle. In addition to admiring the Northern Lights, in Abisko you can also enjoy activities such as hiking in the nearby mountains or snowshoeing.
The Lapland region of Finland, particularly around Rovaniemi, Inari and Urho Kekkonen National Park, is another great place to view the aurora. This remote and wild region, with vast snow-covered forests, frozen lakes and wildlife including reindeer, elk and bears, provides a spectacular setting for viewing the Northern Lights.
One of Lapland’s most unique attractions are the glass igloos, which allow you to enjoy the Northern Lights without leaving your bed. Additionally, Lapland offers a wide variety of typically Nordic experiences, such as visiting Santa’s house in Rovaniemi or taking snowmobile rides. Already in autumn, with the landscape covered by the first snowflakes and the reflection of the aurora on the frozen lakes, you can enjoy the perfect experiences before the arrival of the extreme cold of winter.
In Iceland, nature is impressive in itself and any trip is always justified, regardless of the time of year. But yes, in autumn and winter the Northern Lights add an extra touch of magic and that is something to take into account. The best time to see them on the island is from late September to early April, but it is important to remember that the weather in Iceland is unpredictable and storms can change quickly.
Reykjavik, the capital, is a good starting point for exploring the island and chasing the aurora. However, to maximize your viewing opportunities, it’s advisable to get away from the city lights and head to places like the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon or the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Other highlights include Thingvellir, where auroras can be reflected in the lake waters, and Vik, a coastal area where lights can dance on the ocean.
- Lofoten Islands, Norway
The Lofoten Islands, off the coast of Norway, are known for their spectacular scenery of rugged mountains dotted with picturesque fishing villages. This archipelago is a highly recommended destination for any self-respecting trip to Norway, but even more so if you want to experience the Northern Lights, as you will enjoy them in a calm and authentic environment.
Thanks to its geographical location, Lofoten allows you to enjoy the auroras from September to March, and the mountainous landscape creates particularly beautiful compositions for photographers. Additionally, the islands offer a rich cultural experience, with Viking museums, traditional fishing and activities such as hiking and kayaking, perfect to combine with looking for the Northern Lights.
And if you prefer to look for the aurora on the other side of the Atlantic, Canada’s Yukon Territory is also one of the best places in the world to experience the Northern Lights in the Northern Hemisphere. Starting from Whitehorse, its capital, it is not difficult to find clear skies which become an excellent setting for observing the reflection of the Northern Lights on the vast landscapes of the Yukon.
An interesting option in this region is to stay in a chalet or lodges isolated, where the total absence of light pollution creates perfect conditions for observing the aurora. There is also the possibility of signing up for multi-day excursions from Whitehorse to enjoy Canadian nature more intensely. In addition to the Northern Lights, the Yukon also offers a rich history of the Klondike River Gold Rush, which takes us to some of the most remote places in Canada.
