Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is a mesmerizing atmospheric phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with atoms and molecules in Earth’s upper atmosphere. These particles, primarily electrons and protons, are ejected from the sun’s corona during solar activity such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections.
As these charged particles approach Earth, they are guided by our planet’s magnetic field towards the polar regions. Upon entering the atmosphere, they interact with gases like oxygen and nitrogen at altitudes ranging from 80 to 400 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. This interaction causes the gases to become excited and emit light, resulting in the colorful displays we observe as auroras.
The colors of the aurora depend on the type of gas and the altitude of the interaction:
- Green: Excited oxygen atoms at 100-150 km altitude
- Red: Excited oxygen atoms at 150-350 km altitude
- Purple/Mauve: Excited nitrogen atoms at 250-400 km altitude
- Pink/Lilac: Excited nitrogen atoms at 95-100 km altitude
The intensity and frequency of auroral displays are influenced by solar activity, which follows an 11-year cycle. The most recent peak in solar activity occurred in 2014, with the next peak expected in the mid-2020s (2024-2025).
For those seeking to experience the Aurora Borealis, Northern Norway is considered one of the best locations, particularly during the winter months. The region lies beneath the auroral oval, offering consistent opportunities to witness this spectacular phenomenon. The optimal viewing period is from late autumn to early spring (September to late March), with peak visibility typically occurring between 6 PM and 1 AM.
What makes Northern Norway the best location to witness Aurora Borealis in winter
Northern Norway is considered one of the best locations to witness the Aurora Borealis in winter due to several key factors:
- Geographical position: Northern Norway lies directly beneath the auroral oval, making it an ideal location for observing the Northern Lights. This high-latitude position increases the chances of witnessing the phenomenon.
- Extended darkness: The long, dark winter nights in Northern Norway provide ample opportunities for aurora viewing. The peak season runs from September 21st to March 21st, with optimal conditions between November and February.
- Clear skies: Many areas in Northern Norway, such as Tromsø and Kirkenes, experience frequent clear nights, which are essential for aurora visibility.
- Minimal light pollution: Locations outside city centers offer pristine natural landscapes with minimal light pollution, enhancing the visibility of the auroras.
- Reliable sightings: Some areas in Northern Norway boast impressive statistics for aurora sightings. For example, Kirkenes experiences approximately 200 Aurora Borealis nights per year.
- Unique viewing experiences: Northern Norway offers various ways to experience the Northern Lights, including guided tours, husky sledding, and snowmobile excursions, enhancing the overall aurora-viewing experience.
- Stable climate: Some areas, like the Lyngen Alps region, have a stable continental climate that offers many clear, starry nights ideal for aurora viewing.
By combining these factors, Northern Norway provides visitors with an exceptional opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis during the winter months.
What are some lesser-known spots in Northern Norway for Aurora Borealis viewing
While popular locations like Tromsø, Harstad, Lofoten, Alta, Kautokeino and Svalbard are well-known for Aurora Borealis viewing, Northern Norway offers several lesser-known spots that provide excellent opportunities to witness this spectacular phenomenon:
- Grøtfjord: Located near Tromsø, Grøtfjord offers wide, open views of the night sky, making it an ideal spot for Northern Lights viewing. Its proximity to the city makes it easily accessible while still providing a more secluded experience.
- Kattfjordvatnet: This large lake on the way to Sommarøy is a hidden gem for aurora chasers. It offers multiple viewing points along its 10km stretch, with ample parking spaces. The frozen lake in winter provides a vast, unobstructed view of the sky.
- Signaldalen: This area features one of Norway’s most famous mountains and offers a wide, northwest-facing view that’s perfect for Northern Lights observation. It’s less frequented by tourists, providing a more peaceful viewing experience.
- Skulsfjord road: Just before the tunnel on the road to Skulsfjord, you’ll find a spot with a panoramic west-north oriented view. While it can be windy, it offers a spectacular vantage point over Vengsøya.
- Grunnfjord: Located about 1.5 hours from Tromsø on Ringvassøya island, Grunnfjord often has clearer weather than Tromsø itself. It provides a wide view and is less crowded, though it’s important to note its remote location.
- Narvik: While not as unknown, Narvik is often overlooked in favor of Tromsø. However, it offers excellent aurora viewing opportunities and is less crowded than more popular destinations.
- Bodø: A short distance from Rønvikfjellit Mountain, Bodø provides sublime open views of the sky and superb viewing spots for the Northern Lights.
These lesser-known locations offer the advantage of fewer crowds and light pollution, potentially enhancing your Aurora Borealis viewing experience in Northern Norway.
What makes Narvik a good spot for Aurora Borealis viewing
Narvik stands out as an excellent location for Aurora Borealis viewing due to several factors:
Geographical Advantage
- Arctic Circle location: Narvik is situated north of the Arctic Circle at 68 degrees north, placing it within the auroral zone.
- Varied topography: The surrounding wild and rugged landscape, with mountains soaring up to 1,800 meters from the Ofotfjord, creates diverse microclimates.
Weather Conditions
- Meteorological variation: The diverse landscape ensures a range of weather patterns, increasing the chances of finding clear skies.
- Strategic viewing options: If clouds cover one area, Northern Lights guides can often find clear skies in nearby locations like Skjomen or across the Swedish border.
Viewing Opportunities
- Cable car access: Narvik’s cable car takes visitors over 600m high, away from artificial light and closer to dark polar skies.
- Ski resort vantage point: Narvikfjellet, Northern Scandinavia’s highest ski resort, offers elevated viewing platforms.
- Coastal views: Clear nights allow for Northern Lights viewing from beaches just outside the city.
Additional Benefits
- Experienced guides: The area has numerous skilled Northern Lights chasers who know the best viewing spots.
- Diverse activities: Visitors can combine aurora viewing with dogsledding, skiing, and visits to the Polar Zoo.
- Unique accommodations: Options like the Arctic Dome provide isolated, panoramic views of the night sky.
These factors combine to make Narvik a versatile and reliable destination for those seeking to experience the Aurora Borealis.
What makes Harstad and Hamnvik, Ibestad on the island of Rolla a good spot for Aurora Borealis viewing.
Harstad and Hamnvik, Ibestad on the island of Rolla offer excellent conditions for Aurora Borealis viewing, particularly with the backdrop of Stortinden or Senja:
- Prime location: Both areas are situated directly under the Northern Lights oval, significantly increasing the chances of witnessing the aurora.
- Minimal light pollution: These locations, especially Hamnvik on Rolla, benefit from dark skies essential for optimal aurora visibility.
- Extended viewing season: The region experiences long periods of darkness from September to April, maximizing opportunities for aurora sightings.
- Diverse viewing spots: Harstad: Aunfjellet, a low ridge just outside the city, offers panoramic views over fjords and waters to the north. Hamnvik: Its coastal location provides unobstructed views towards Stortinden and Senja, creating a dramatic backdrop for the Northern Lights.
- Unique perspectives: The fjords in the area can reflect the aurora, potentially doubling the spectacle.
- Weather variability: The diverse landscape ensures a range of weather patterns, increasing the chances of finding clear skies for aurora viewing. Accessibility: Harstad’s city amenities combined with Hamnvik’s more rural setting offer a balance of comfort and pristine viewing conditions.
- Less crowded: These areas are relatively untouristy, allowing for a more relaxed and authentic Northern Lights viewing experience.
The specific backdrop of Stortinden or Senja from Hamnvik adds a unique element to aurora viewing, combining the celestial display with dramatic mountain silhouettes, enhancing the overall visual experience.
Astafjord Adventure – Hamnvik Aurora Chasing Tour Guide
