Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights, are one of nature’s most spectacular displays. These eerie yet beautiful lights can be seen in the northernmost parts of the world and have long been associated with myths and legends.
Before you plan on witnessing this spectacular sight, make sure you figure out the best time to visit Norway, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Canada, or Greenland as the this auroral band spans across several nations. This will help ensure you don’t land up disappointed during your travel.
If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in a place where you can see the Northern Lights, here are some tips to help you make the most of the experience:
Timing is Everything
Timing is everything when it comes to seeing the Aurora. The best time to see and photograph the Northern Lights is during the dark winter months when there is little or no daylight. However, the Aurora can also be seen during the summer months, although it is much less likely.
The most important thing is to check the aurora forecast before heading out. There are many websites and apps that provide Aurora forecasts. This will give you an idea of when and where the Northern Lights are most likely to be visible. Once you have a general idea of when to look, keep your eyes peeled for any changes in the sky.
The Aurora can appear suddenly, and it is often the brightest when it is first appearing. If you patiently wait and keep your eyes open, you may be rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Find a Dark Location
If you want to see the Aurora, one of the most important things you can do is find a dark location. The Aurora is best seen in areas with little light pollution, so getting away from city lights is key.
If you’re in a remote location, simply find an open area with a clear view of the sky. In areas with more light pollution, you may need to drive away from city lights to get a clear view of the sky.
Once you’ve found a dark location with an open view of the sky, give yourself plenty of time to adjust to the darkness. It can take up to half an hour for your eyes to adjust fully, and that’s when you’ll be able to see the Aurora at its best.
Dress for the Occasion
One of the best ways to enjoy the Aurora Borealis is to be prepared for the cold. The Northern Lights typically occur in areas with very cold climates, so dressing in layers is essential.
You’ll want to wear a base layer of thermal underwear, followed by a sweater and a coat. If you have gloves and a hat, be sure to bring them as well. It’s also a good idea to wear boots with a good grip, as you may be walking in snow or on icy ground.
It’s also a good idea to pack a thermos of hot chocolate or tea to keep you warm during your viewing experience. By dressing for the occasion, you can make sure that you’re comfortable and able to fully enjoy the beauty of the Aurora Borealis.
Avoid Full Moon Nights
If you want to see the Northern Lights at their brightest, it’s best to avoid full moon nights. The bright moonlight can interfere with the Aurora, making it harder to see.
Instead, try to view the Northern Lights during a new moon phase. This is when the moon is not visible in the sky, and there is less light pollution. This will give you the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis at its most spectacular.
Another good time to see the Aurora is during twilight. This is because the sun is below the horizon, and there is no direct sunlight. The Aurora can often be seen during the few hours before dawn and after sunset.
Book a Guided Tour
One of the best ways to see the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, is to go on a guided tour. There are many companies that offer tours in aurora-viewing areas such as Alaska, Norway, Canada, Greenland, West Iceland, Scandinavia, etc., and they will provide you with everything you need to have a great experience.Â
Some of the things that you can expect on a guided tour include transportation to and from the viewing area, equipment, and expert guides who will help you find the best spot to see the lights. You may even have the opportunity to stay in an Aurora lodge or cabin where you can view the lights from your bed.
In addition, many tours also offer other activities, such as snowmobiling or dogsledding, so that you can make the most of your time in the aurora zone and create lasting memories.Â
However if you plan on taking a road trip in Norway, Iceland, Greenland or any of the other Scandinavian countries make sure you plan it well, so that you get to witness the beauty of the Northern Lights in all its might.
Use a Camera to Capture the Moment
If you want to take photos of the Northern Lights, it’s best to use a camera with manual settings. Make sure your camera is set to a high ISO. This will help to ensure that your photos are clear and free of noise.
You can use a wide-angle lens to get as much of the sky in the frame as possible. Set your shutter speed to atleast 20 seconds to avoid any blurriness. Once you have your camera set up, experiment with different settings to see what works best.
It’s also a good idea to use a tripod when taking photos of the Aurora. This will help to keep your camera steady and prevent any blurriness.
Remember to take lots of photos! The Aurora is a constantly changing light show, so you’ll want to be sure to capture as many images as possible.
Conclusion
Seeing the Northern Lights is a truly magical experience. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis in all its glory.
Dress warmly, avoid full moon nights, and book a guided tour to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Use a camera with manual settings to capture the moment, and don’t forget to take lots of photos. Lastly, be patient and enjoy the experience. With a little luck, you’ll be rewarded with one of nature’s most spectacular light shows.