Northern Lights - Everything You Need To Know Before You Go
He Northern Lights, a mesmerizing natural phenomenon, light up the night skies with vibrant colors. Ready to discover where and how to see them?
Mar 27, 20252.8K Shares40.7K Views
The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, have fascinated humanity for centuries. This ethereal phenomenon lights up the polar skies with vibrant hues of green, pink, purple, and sometimes red, creating a spectacle that is both enchanting and otherworldly.
For adventurers and stargazers, witnessing the northern lightsis often a once-in-a-lifetime experience one that leaves a lasting impression of nature’s raw beauty and mystery. But what exactly are the northern lights? Beyond their stunning visuals lies a captivating story of science, folklore, and geography.
1. What Causes The Northern Lights?
The northern lights are a result of interactions between solar particles and Earth’s magnetic field. Here’s how it works:
- Solar Activity: The Sun emits charged particles known as the solar wind. During periods of high solar activity, these particles are ejected in larger quantities.
- Earth’s Magnetosphere: When these particles reach Earth, they are funneled by its magnetic field towards the polar regions.
- Collision with Atmosphere: As the charged particles collide with atmospheric gases primarily oxygen and nitrogen they release energy in the form of light, creating the auroras.
The colors of the aurora depend on the type of gas and altitude of the interaction:
- Green: Caused by oxygen molecules at lower altitudes (around 60 miles).
- Red: Caused by oxygen molecules at higher altitudes (above 150 miles).
- Purple and Blue: Result from interactions with nitrogen.
2. What Are The Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are vivid, swirling displays of light in the night sky, with colors varying from green to pink and red.
The Southern Lights, or aurora australis, are visible in areas near the South Pole.
Auroras typically start about 50 miles (80 km) above the Earth's surface, with their highest point reaching up to 150 miles (800 km) above the ground.
3. The Unique Winter Light
While there’s no guarantee of witnessing the Northern Lights they are a natural phenomenon like the weather you’re still assured of breathtaking light displays in Northern Norway throughout the polar night.
On clear days, the southern horizon glows with stunning sunset hues, while the northern sky turns a rich midnight blue. During the "blue hour" at twilight, the snowy landscape is enveloped in a serene, glassy deep blue light.
4. Where Can You See The Northern Lights?
The best places to witness the northern lights are within the auroral oval, a region near the Earth’s magnetic poles. Top destinationsinclude:
Norway
- Tromsø: Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," Tromsø offers excellent viewing opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy activities like dog sledding, whale watching, and exploring Sami culture.
- Svalbard: This remote archipelago, located halfway between Norway and the North Pole, provides an untouched backdrop for auroral displays. The polar night a period of 24-hour darkness during winter offers unmatched opportunities for northern lights viewing.
Iceland
- Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thingvellir is renowned for its geological significance and dark skies, making it an ideal spot for aurora hunters. Nearby hot springs and lava fields add to the experience.
- Reykjavík: Despite being a capital city, Reykjavík has many nearby dark-sky spots, such as Grotta Lighthouse and Öskjuhlíð Hill. Combine aurora watching with a soak in the Blue Lagoon for an unforgettable experience.
Finland
Lapland: Finland’s Lapland region is synonymous with winter wonderlands. Stay in glass igloos or aurora cabins to enjoy the lights from the comfort of your bed. Snowshoeing, reindeer sleigh rides, and ice hotels enhance the magic.
Canada
- Yukon Territory: A rugged wilderness with minimal light pollution, the Yukon offers a pristine environment for aurora viewing. Visit Whitehorse for guided tours and Indigenous cultural experiences.
- Churchill, Manitoba: Known as the "Polar Bear Capital of the World," Churchill offers a unique blend of wildlife encounters and spectacular auroras. Winter months bring the clearest skies.
Alaska, USA
Fairbanks: Fairbanks is often considered one of the best places in the United States to see the northern lights. The city’s Aurora Ice Museum, hot springs, and guided tours make it a favorite destination for aurora enthusiasts. Venture to nearby Murphy Dome for elevated viewing spots.
5. Fun Facts About Northern Lights
Neil Bone, in his book The Aurora: Sun-Earth Interactions, credits Pierre Gassendi (1592–1655) and Galileo Galilei (1564–1642) with coining the term aurora borealis meaning “northern dawn”after witnessing a light display on September 12, 1621. However, Bone also notes an earlier description of the Northern Lights, written 1,000 years earlier by Gregory of Tours (538–594), who described them as so bright that you might have thought that day was about to dawn.”
Auroras have been observed since ancient times. Displays can occur as high as 1,000 km (620 miles) above the Earth, though most range between 80 and 120 km. They are more frequent and vivid during periods of high solar sunspot activity, which follows an approximately 11-year cycle.
Some auroral events have been particularly dramatic and widespread. Notable examples include the storms of August-September 1859, February 11, 1958 (which spanned 1,250 miles from Oregon to New Hampshire), and March 13, 1989, when the sky turned a brilliant red, and auroras were visible across Europe, North America, and as far south as Cuba.
Auroras are deeply embedded in the legends of northern cultures. For instance, some North American Inuit refer to them as aqsarniit (“football players”) and believe they are the spirits of the dead playing football with a walrus head. Many tales caution children that the lights could descend and carry them away.
Theories about the aurora’s origin date back to June 1896 when Norwegian scientist Kristian Birkeland, considered the “father of modern auroral science,” proposed that electrons from sunspots trigger auroras.
The earliest recorded mention of the Northern Lights is thought to be on a Babylonian clay tablet, documenting observations made by King Nebuchadnezzar II’s official astronomers in 568/567 BC.
Yellowknife in Canada’s Northwest Territories has become a hub for aurora tourism. While some people claim to hear sounds associated with the auroras, this phenomenon has been challenging to document.
6. Why Have We Seen So Much Of The Northern Lights Recently?
What was once considered a rare, once-in-a-lifetime sight in the UK has become more frequent in recent years, and there are several reasons for this.
One reason is that the Sun is approaching its peak activity in its 11-year cycle. During this peak, known as a "solar maximum," there is an increase in sunspots, which results in more coronal mass ejections powerful bursts of superheated plasma and magnetic fields releasing charged particles toward Earth, causing auroras.
Additionally, compared to the last solar maximum in 2014, more people now have smartphones to capture images of the aurora. Improved forecasting, apps, and the rise of social media have also contributed to greater awareness and accessibility.
7. What Time Are The Northern Lights Visible?
The Northern Lights are best viewed at night under clear skies.
“The brightest auroras usually occur between 11 pm and midnight local time,” says Andy Smith, a researcher at Northumbria University who studies space weather using artificial intelligence.
Keep in mind that the lights often appear less vibrant to the naked eye compared to photos and videos. Professional photographers use camera settings that capture more light, making the displays look more dramatic.
A team of space physicists from Lancaster University manages the AuroraWatch UK account on X (formerly Twitter), providing updates on when the Northern Lights might be visible in the UK.
8. Folklore And Myths Surrounding The Northern Lights
The northern lights have inspired countless myths and legends:
- Scandinavia: Many Norse cultures believed the lights were reflections of the Valkyries’ armor as they guided warriors to Valhalla.
- Inuit Traditions: Some Inuit groups saw the aurora as the spirits of ancestors playing celestial games.
- China and Japan: Auroras were thought to bring good luck and were associated with dragons.
These stories add a layer of cultural richness to the experience of witnessing the aurora borealis.
9. Where Is The Best Place To See The Northern Lights In The UK?
According to Simon Machin, the Met Office's space weather manager, the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights are in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England.
However, in May 2024, the lights were also spotted in various parts of southern England, including Kent, Dorset, and even London.
10. Which Month Is Best To See The Northern Lights?
The British Geological Survey (BGS) states that larger Northern Lights displays tend to occur around the equinoxes (March-April and September-October) due to an increase in magnetic storms during these times.
The Southern Lights, which are just as frequent as the Northern Lights, are often observed across Antarctica.
However, since fewer people live near the South Pole, the Southern Lights are less well-known compared to their northern counterpart.
11. Is The Aurora Borealis The Same As The Northern Lights?
The scientific name for the Northern Lights is aurora borealis, derived from Aurora, the Roman goddess of dawn, and Boreas, the Greek god of the north wind.
Similarly, the Southern Lights are scientifically known as aurora australis, named after Auster, the Greek god of the south wind.
12. Tips For Photographing The Northern Lights
Capturing the northern lights requires some preparation. Follow these tips for stunning results:
- Use a Tripod: Stability is crucial for long-exposure shots.
- Set a Wide Aperture: Use an f/2.8 or lower for better light intake.
- Adjust ISO Settings: Start with ISO 1600 and tweak as needed.
- Long Exposure: Experiment with 5-30 second exposures.
- Manual Focus: Autofocus may struggle in low light; use manual focus for sharp images.
FAQs About The Northern Lights
What Is The Difference Between The Northern And Southern Lights?
The northern lights occur near the North Pole, while the southern lights (aurora australis) are their counterpart near the South Pole. Both phenomena are caused by the same solar activity.
Can You Predict The Northern Lights?
Yes, aurora activity can be forecasted using solar activity data. Websites and apps like Space Weather Live provide real-time updates.
Do The Northern Lights Make Noise?
Although rare, some observers report faint crackling or buzzing sounds during intense auroral displays. Scientists are still studying this phenomenon.
Are The Northern Lights Harmful?
No, the northern lights are not harmful. They occur far above Earth’s surface and have no direct impact on humans.
What’s The Best Way To Prepare For An Aurora Hunt?
Dress warmly, check aurora forecasts, and choose a dark-sky location with clear weather.
Final Thoughts
The northern lights are more than just a visual treat; they’re a reminder of the intricate connections between our planet and the cosmos. Whether you’re drawn by their scientific marvel or their cultural mystique, witnessing the aurora borealis is an experience that stays with you forever.
Jump to
1. What Causes The Northern Lights?
2. What Are The Northern Lights?
3. The Unique Winter Light
4. Where Can You See The Northern Lights?
5. Fun Facts About Northern Lights
6. Why Have We Seen So Much Of The Northern Lights Recently?
7. What Time Are The Northern Lights Visible?
8. Folklore And Myths Surrounding The Northern Lights
9. Where Is The Best Place To See The Northern Lights In The UK?
10. Which Month Is Best To See The Northern Lights?
11. Is The Aurora Borealis The Same As The Northern Lights?
12. Tips For Photographing The Northern Lights
FAQs About The Northern Lights
Final Thoughts
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