What is the aurora? Why does it appear? This article will explain the principles of the aurora, the aurora months in North America and Northern Europe, recommend 13 popular aurora locations around the world, answer common questions that beginners often encounter when chasing the aurora, and share the most convenient and recommended mode of transportation for chasing the aurora: "self-driving car rental"!
Table of contents:
One,What is the aurora??auroraIntroduction to the principles and related myths
Standing in the Arctic Circle in the dead of night, watching green, red, or blue beams of light dance like silk across the starry sky, the visual spectacle of the aurora borealis is a beauty that defies description.
Why is this luminous phenomenon, caused by the collision of charged particles and atoms, considered a must-do for many travelers? Let's start by discussing the scientific causes of the aurora and the beautiful myths behind it.
(I) How are auroras formed? A scientific perspective on the formation of auroras.
The formation of the aurora can be broken down into the following three main steps:
- solar wind emissionThe sun's surface constantly releases streams of high-energy charged particles, forming the solar wind. When solar activity is intense, the solar wind surges toward Earth on a large scale, carrying with it a large number of charged particles.
- Interception of Earth's magnetic fieldThe Earth itself has a strong magnetic field. When the solar wind reaches the Earth, some of the charged particles are guided by the Earth's magnetic field to the top of the North and South Poles.
- Atmospheric impact luminescenceWhen these high-energy particles are guided by magnetic fields to the North and South Poles, they collide violently with atoms in the upper atmosphere. The energy generated by the collision is released in the form of "light," which is what we see as the "autumn" with the naked eye.
(II) The Legend of the Aurora
In an era before widespread scientific instruments, the dreamlike aurora borealis was seen by ancient people as a divine revelation or a supernatural omen. Different cultures have vastly different interpretations of the aurora, for example:
- North AmericaIndigenous peoples in North America have different interpretations of the aurora. Some groups believe that the aurora is "dancing spirits," some believe that the aurora is "ancestral spirits dancing," and others describe the aurora as "torches that guide souls to heaven."
- NordicIn Scandinavia, the aurora borealis is believed to be the shimmering light reflected from the armor of the Valkyries, who guide the souls of fallen warriors to Valhalla. Therefore, the appearance of the aurora represents the glory and immortality of warriors.
- FinlandIn Finnish, the aurora borealis is called "Revontulet," meaning "fox fire." According to Finnish legend, a giant fox ran across the snowfields, its tail sweeping up snowflakes that touched the sky, creating sparks that transformed into the magnificent aurora borealis.
- RomeIn Roman mythology, the goddess of dawn, Aurora, would fly into the sky every morning to announce the arrival of the sun to the world. The ancient Romans believed that the aurora borealis was the flowing skirt of the goddess, symbolizing the beginning of hope and light. Therefore, the scientist Galileo named the aurora borealis "Aurora Borealis," combining the names of the goddess of dawn and the god of the north wind, Boreas.
Two,Aurora viewing monthRecommended! Popular in various countries of the Northern HemisphereAurora MonthCompilation of prediction methods
To see the aurora borealis, luck isn't enough; you also need to choose the right time, as the aurora occurs year-round, but requires a "dark enough night" and a "clear sky" to be observed. Generally, the aurora season in the Northern Hemisphere lasts from the end of August to the beginning of April of the following year, but this varies depending on local climate and latitude.
Below, we've compiled a list of the best months to view the aurora at 13 popular locations, and we'll also introduce you to the KP value for different aurora levels, so you can successfully capture the amazing moments when the aurora appears!
(a) When is the best time to chase light? North America,Northern Lights Months in Northern EuropeWatch once
North America and Northern Europe are both popular aurora viewing destinations, but due to their different climates, the best times to observe the aurora differ even though they are both in the Northern Hemisphere. Below is a list of the best months for viewing the aurora in popular locations:
| area | Popular observation locations | Recommended time | |
| North America | USA | Alaska: Fairbanks | August to April of the following year |
| Canada | Yellowknife | August to April of the following year | |
| Churchill | February ~ March | ||
| White Horse City | August to April of the following year | ||
| Nordic | Sweden | Abisco | August to April of the following year |
| Norway | Tromsø | October to March of the following year | |
| Svalbard | September to March of the following year | ||
| Iceland | Reykjavik | September to April of the following year | |
| Acreri | |||
| Brauscoga Bigez | |||
| Finland | Rovaniemi | August to April of the following year | |
| other | Greenland | Conelsuak | September to April of the following year |
| Scotland | Tedland Islands | October to March of the following year | |
(II) How to identify the aurora intensity? Understand the "KP value" that determines the intensity of the aurora.
When chasing the aurora, you'll often hear people discussing "What's the KP index today?" The KP index is an indicator of magnetic field activity, ranging from 0 to 9. The higher the number, the stronger the aurora and the easier it is to see with the naked eye and capture with a mobile phone.
- KP 1～2Aurora activity is weak and requires long exposure to capture; it may not be visible to the naked eye.
- KP 3～4A stable and visible active aurora will appear as a pale green band of light, suitable for first-time viewers.
- KP 5～6The aurora is bright, and its color may turn pale purple or red. It is clearly visible to the naked eye and very easy to take pictures of.
- KP 7～9The aurora borealis was at an explosive level, turning the entire sky into a stage where every snapshot could be a postcard-worthy masterpiece.
To find out the aurora intensity forecasts for different regions, you can refer to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) "Aurora Level Forecasts".30-minute aurora forecast"or Icelandic Meteorological Office "Aurora ForecastIn addition to the official information mentioned above, there is also forecast information compiled by unofficial sources, including information from a Belgian non-profit organization.SpaceWeatherLive", and "My Aurora Forecast & Alerts" (download:iOS/Android (operating system)).
III. Must-Have List for Aurora Chasing: 13 Popular SpotsAurora Location Recommendations
To help you realize your dream, we have carefully selected 13 of the world's most renowned aurora viewing locations, from North America to Northern Europe, including Fairbanks, Yellowknife, and Reykjavik. This list will take you around the Arctic Circle to pinpoint the best viewing locations.
(one)Fairbanks, Alaska, USA Fairbanks
Fairbanks, Alaska, is located on the aurora belt and is a top choice for many aurora chasers. The terrain here is sheltered from the wind and dry, and the aurora can be seen about 60% of the time from the end of August to March or April of the following year. As long as the night sky is clear, the aurora will almost never be absent. Therefore, it is known as the place with the highest probability of aurora viewing in the world, making it very suitable for novice aurora chasers.
- Number of aurora days per yearApproximately 243 days
- Best viewing monthAugust to April of the following year
- Other travel experiencesPolar hot springs, dog sledding, glacier hiking, and the monument commemorating crossing the Arctic Circle.
- Traffic adviceFlights from Taiwan to Seattle with a layover in Fairbanks take approximately 20 hours. Taiwanese passengers holding valid passports... ESTA Entry is permitted
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(two)Yellowknife, Canada Yellowknife
Yellowknife, located in the Northwest Territories of Canada, is a popular aurora chasing destination due to its flat terrain and lack of ocean currents, resulting in exceptionally high clarity and frequency of aurora sightings. The town boasts the famous "Aurora Village," where visitors can relax in warm Indigenous hunting tents, enjoying hot drinks while waiting for the aurora to appear.
- Number of aurora days per yearApproximately 250 days
- Best viewing monthAugust to April of the following year
- Other travel experiencesIce fishing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and experiencing a bus ride on the "ice highway" over a frozen lake.
- Traffic adviceFlights from Taiwan to Vancouver, then connecting to Yellowknife, take approximately 16 hours. Please allow sufficient time for both international and domestic layovers.
(three)Churchill, Canada Churchill
Churchill, known as the polar bear capital of the world, is one of the very few places in the world where you can observe large polar animals and the aurora borealis at the same time. Located on the shore of Hudson Bay, Churchill not only has frequent aurora activity, but you can also see polar bears roaming the snowfields or beluga whales migrating back, making it perfect for wildlife photographers and light chasers.
- Number of aurora days per yearApproximately 300 days
- Best viewing month: February to March
- Other travel experiences: Get up close to polar bears on a snowmobile, watch beluga whales, and visit Prince of Wales Castle.
- Traffic adviceThe journey from Taiwan to Vancouver, then to Winnipeg, and finally to Churchill takes approximately 21 hours.
(Four)Whitehorse, Canada Whitehorse
Located in the Yukon Territory of Canada, Whitehorse boasts a rich gold rush history and stunning river scenery. Compared to the flat terrain of Yellowknife, Whitehorse is surrounded by mountains, creating stunning views of the aurora borealis alongside snow-capped peaks. The atmosphere is relatively relaxed, making it ideal for travelers who want a slower pace and outdoor activities that connect with nature.
- Number of aurora days per yearApproximately 200 days
- Best viewing monthAugust to April of the following year
- Other travel experiencesPolar hot springs, polar zoo, Yukon River canoeing, snow biking
- Traffic adviceAfter flying from Taiwan to Vancouver, take a domestic flight (approximately 2.5 hours), for a total journey time of about 18-20 hours.
(five)Sweden: Abisco Abisko
Abisko, Sweden, boasts an exceptional climate for aurora viewing, characterized by dryness and minimal cloud cover, allowing for long periods of clear night skies. Furthermore, the town's location within a national park with low light pollution makes it one of the most reliable aurora viewing spots in Northern Europe.
- Number of aurora days per yearApproximately 200 days
- Best viewing monthAugust to April of the following year
- Other travel experiencesStaying in an ice hotel, dog sledding, ice fishing, hiking in national parks, and enjoying a Nordic sauna.
- Traffic adviceAlternatively, you can fly directly from Taiwan to a European city and then transfer to Kiruna Airport in Sweden, or take the Arctic Express overnight train from Stockholm. The total journey takes more than 30 hours.
(six)Norway: Tromsø Tromsø
Tromsø, known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," is the most vibrant city in northern Norway. It offers the convenience of urban life while simultaneously providing the spectacular sight of the aurora borealis, making it a top choice for many Europeans seeking to chase the Northern Lights. Influenced by the North Atlantic Current, Tromsø enjoys relatively warm winters, making it a good option for those concerned about adapting to polar climates.
- Number of aurora days per yearApproximately 200 days
- Best viewing monthOctober to March of the following year
- Other travel experiencesTake a cable car ride to overlook the city and the aurora borealis, tour the Arctic Cathedral, and whale watching in the fjords.
- Traffic adviceFlights from Taiwan to major European cities, then connecting to Oslo, followed by a domestic flight to Tromsø, take approximately 24-28 hours.
(seven)Norway: Svalbard Svalbard
Located deep within the Arctic Circle, Svalbard is the northernmost settlement on Earth. From November to January, it experiences over 100 days of "perpetual night," with the sky remaining dark 24 hours a day. It is one of the very few places in the world where one can experience the "aurora borealis during the day," creating a sense of unknown Arctic adventure.
- Number of aurora days per yearAlmost all year round
- Best viewing monthSeptember to March of the following year
- Other travel experiencesSearching for polar bears, visiting global seed vaults, and dog sledding wilderness adventures.
- Traffic adviceFlights from Taiwan to major European cities, connecting to Oslo, and then to Longyearbyen Airport take approximately 28-32 hours.
(eight)Iceland: Reykjavik Reykjavík
Iceland is the only country whose entire territory lies within the aurora zone, and Reykjavik is the most easily accessible, attracting many aurora chasers every year. However, Iceland's climate is affected by ocean currents, resulting in highly variable weather, so seeing the aurora is not guaranteed. But by driving from Reykjavik into the suburbs, you have a chance to witness the aurora dancing alongside geothermal and volcanic landscapes, making it ideal for travelers who want to experience multiple landscapes in one trip.
- Number of aurora days per yearApproximately 170-200 days
- Best viewing monthSeptember to April of the following year
- Other travel experiencesHot spring bathing, aurora viewing by boat, and exploring the Golden Circle's crustal fissures.
- Traffic adviceFlying from Taiwan to a major European city and then transferring, the journey takes approximately 23-25 hours.
(Nine)Iceland: Akureyri Akureyri
Compared to the capital Reykjavik, Akureyri in Iceland has a more stable and drier climate, thus offering a higher chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Moreover, it's far from the tourist crowds of the capital region, boasting a pristine and tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking to explore the hidden gems of northern Iceland.
- Number of aurora days per yearApproximately 170-200 days
- Best viewing monthSeptember to April of the following year
- Other travel experiencesNatural hot springs, waterfall tours, and whale watching tours in the north.
- Traffic adviceFlying from Taiwan to a major European city and then transferring, the journey takes approximately 23-25 hours.
(ten)Iceland: Brauskogabigz Bláskógabyggð
Brauskogabigz is a small town in southern Iceland. Its open, flat terrain, almost no obstructions, and extremely low light pollution make it ideal for aurora viewing. Here, you can witness both geysers erupting and the aurora blooming simultaneously—a sacred and awe-inspiring display of natural power, making it one of the most unforgettable moments of your aurora-chasing journey.
- Number of aurora days per yearApproximately 170-200 days
- Best viewing monthSeptember to April of the following year
- Other travel experiencesGeysers, Gullfoss Falls, snorkeling
- Traffic adviceAfter flying from Taiwan to a major European city, you'll transfer to a flight to Reykjavik, and then drive there yourself. The journey takes approximately 25-30 hours.
(eleven)Finland: Rovaniemi Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is officially recognized by Finland as the home of Santa Claus and is also a very romantic aurora viewing spot in Northern Europe. Here, you can lie in a "glass dome" and watch the aurora dance overhead while enjoying the warmth of the air conditioning in bed. It is a top choice for many families and couples to chase the aurora.
- Number of aurora days per yearApproximately 150 days
- Best viewing monthAugust to April of the following year
- Other travel experiencesVisit Santa Claus Village, receive a certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle, and experience a reindeer sleigh ride.
- Traffic adviceFlights from Taiwan to major European cities, followed by connecting flights to Rovaniemi, take approximately 20-26 hours. Alternatively, one can take the "Santa Claus Express" overnight train, which takes approximately 28-35 hours.
(twelve)Greenland: Coneluzouak Kangerlussuaq
Conelusuak is the most climate-stable observation point in Greenland. Due to its location deep inland and extremely high rate of clear skies, there is almost no light pollution. In Conelusuak, you can be surrounded by the aurora borealis in a 360-degree field of pure white ice, enjoying top-notch aurora beauty with high purity and brightness.
- Number of aurora days per yearApproximately 300 days
- Best viewing monthSeptember to April of the following year
- Other travel experiencesExplore the Greenland Ice Cap, experience polar camping, and enjoy the aurora borealis on a cruise ship.
- Traffic adviceFly from Taiwan to a major European city, then transfer in Copenhagen, and finally transfer to Conelsuak. The journey takes approximately 28-40 hours.
(Thirteen)Scotland: Texland Islands Shetland Islands
Located at the northernmost tip of the United Kingdom, the Texland Islands, despite their low latitude, possess a unique Celtic and Viking charm. When intense solar storms occur, the aurora borealis shines against the backdrop of magnificent Scottish cliffs and ancient lighthouses, creating a truly unique aurora-chasing paradise that attracts many seasoned aurora chasers to settle there every year, all for the chance to witness the spectacular aurora.
- Number of aurora days per yearAlmost all year round
- Best viewing monthOctober to March of the following year
- Other travel experiencesEnjoy sightseeing with adorable puffins, exploring Viking ruins, and hiking along the magnificent coastline.
- Traffic adviceThe journey from Taiwan to London, then a connecting flight to Edinburgh, and finally a connecting flight to Samburg Airport takes approximately 24-32 hours.
IV. Must-Read Before Chasing the Aurora! A Comprehensive Summary of Common Problems Beginners Encounter When Viewing the Aurora
Q1: Can the aurora borealis be predicted?
Yes, but it requires combining two major indicators: "index" and "weather".
Aurora prediction is mainly divided into long-term "solar activity cycles" and short-term "real-time observations":
- Long-term cycleSunspot activity cycles approximately every 11 years. During peak periods, the intensity of the solar wind increases, and the probability and intensity of auroral outbursts also increase significantly.
- Real-time observationWhile the aurora index (KP value) can be predicted, local weather changes are the key factor. Even with a high KP value, the aurora will be completely blocked if there are thick clouds.
For first-time aurora chasers, it is recommended to join an aurora tour to increase the chances of seeing the aurora. Experienced guides will take you to an unobstructed, light-pollution-free "aurora paradise" based on the wind direction and cloud cover that night.
However, independent travelers or tourists who frequently chase the aurora can choose to travel by car and use aurora prediction websites or apps to check the aurora index, cloud conditions and viewing probability in their area in real time, easily moving between multiple observation points and increasing their chances of encountering the aurora.
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Q2: How to take beautiful aurora photos? What are some aurora photography techniques?
How can you capture clear and dreamy aurora colors in photos or videos? Mastering these shooting techniques can significantly increase your success rate:
- Mobile phone shootingTurn on "Night Mode" or manual mode, increase the exposure time to 10-30 seconds, and use a tripod to stabilize the phone to avoid shaking.
- Camera shootingUse a DSLR or similar lens, switch to manual mode, increase the ISO to 1,600 or higher, set the aperture to f/2.8-4, and use a long exposure of 10-20 seconds or more. Then make minor adjustments according to the light source that night. Using a wide-angle lens can capture more changes in the sky.
Since long exposures are required when taking photos, a tripod will provide more stability, and multiple photos can be stitched together to create a video later. In addition, in cold weather, the battery of mobile phones or cameras drains very quickly, so it is recommended to carry extra spare batteries or power banks in case of emergency.
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When chasing the aurora in Fairbanks, "driving" is the most flexible way, because aurora observation points are usually some distance from the city, and the timing of the aurora's appearance is difficult to predict precisely. Having a car allows you to move flexibly according to the cloud distribution that night.
Why is a self-driving tour recommended for chasing the Northern Lights?
Many people hesitate between joining an "Aurora Bus Tour" and driving themselves, but if you're serious about "chasing" the aurora borealis, driving yourself has the following three irreplaceable advantages:
- Highly mobileWhether the aurora can be seen depends heavily on the weather. Bus tours usually have fixed stops, and if the cloud cover is too thick, they have to wait. Driving is different; you can monitor real-time cloud maps through a weather app, and if the clouds clear up in the north, you can head north, going wherever the weather is clear, greatly increasing your chances of success.
- Take the initiativeThe aurora borealis may appear at midnight or as early as 3 or 4 a.m. Group tours usually have time restrictions (e.g., returning at 1 a.m.), while driving yourself gives you complete freedom to stay as long as you want without being rushed to get back in the car when the aurora is at its peak.
- Private mobile thermal cabinIn Alaska, the nighttime temperature often drops to -20 to -30 degrees Celsius. At this time, a self-driving car is the best haven. You can stay in the heated car, drink hot cocoa, and look out the window until the aurora appears before getting out of the car to take pictures, avoiding prolonged exposure to the elements and heatstroke.
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📖 Further Reading:
