Northern Lights – Your Quick Guide to the Aurora Borealis
Ever looked up at the night sky and seen a band of dancing colors? That’s the Northern Lights, also called the aurora borealis. They’re a natural light show caused by charged particles from the sun bumping into Earth’s atmosphere. The result is a moving curtain of green, pink, or violet light that can fill the horizon.
When and Where to Watch
The best time to see the aurora is from late September to early April. Dark, clear nights give the strongest displays. High‑latitude locations are prime spots – think Alaska, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Canada’s Yukon.
If you’re in New York, you can still catch a faint glow during strong solar storms, but you’ll need a very dark spot away from city lights. Apps like Aurora Forecast or Space Weather Live can tell you how active the sun is and whether a show is likely that night.
Tips for a Great Aurora Experience
First, dress warm. Layer up with a good insulated jacket, hat, gloves, and boots. You may be standing still for an hour or more, so comfort matters.
Second, find a clear view of the north. A field, a lakeshore, or a hill without trees is ideal. Leave your phone’s flashlight off – the dark helps your eyes adjust.Third, bring a simple camera if you want photos. Set it on a tripod, use a high ISO (800‑1600), and a long exposure (10‑30 seconds). Even a phone can work if you use a steady surface and the night mode.
Lastly, be patient. The lights can appear and disappear in minutes. Keep an eye on the sky and enjoy the quiet. Many people find the experience meditative – the slow movement of color can be surprisingly calming.
Remember, the Northern Lights are unpredictable. Some nights the sky is empty; other nights you get a spectacular show that lasts for hours. The key is to stay flexible, check the forecast, and head out when conditions look good.
Planning a trip? Combine aurora hunting with other winter activities – dog sledding, hot springs, or a cozy cabin stay. That way, even if the lights are shy, you still have a memorable adventure.
So next time you hear about a solar flare or a high aurora alert, grab a warm coat, find a dark spot, and look up. The Northern Lights are waiting.
Kieran Lockhart, Mar, 27 2025
A strong G3-class solar storm might bring the northern lights to the Netherlands tonight, reaching areas like Groningen and Drenthe. The solar storm is linked to heightened activity during the Sun's 11-year cycle. For the best view, seek dark skies and keep an eye on aurora forecasts, as clear skies and specific magnetic conditions improve visibility.
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