Northern Lights are a spectacular phenomena

What is an Aurora?

Auroras occur when charged particles coming from the sun winds (provoked by solar explosions in the surface of the Sun) collide with atoms and molecules in the Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere. These collisions cause disturbances that lead to light emission of varying colors! Green is the most common color observed in the auroras, produced when charged particles interact with oxygen molecules at lower altitudes. Other colors are pink or blue, when the interactions are with nitrogen atoms or oxygen at higher altitudes.

Why in the North?

If the solar winds reach and interact with all of the Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere...why is this phenomenon mostly famous in the North, and we know it as Aurora borealis?

Of course, Auroras also happen in the southern hemisphere, but they occur in less accessible places: to be seen we should have to go far inside the Antarctic Continent for example, and during winter's long night, which is very difficult to do. But the Aurora Australis is there as well :)

Instead, northern locations offer more cities, towns, lodges and resorts which are more accessible and easier to get to in order to stay and see the celestial lights display.

Best destinations for Northern Lights:
Alaska: Known for its vast wilderness and remote locations, Alaska offers a pristine environment for viewing the Northern Lights away from light pollution.
Unique experiences include dog sledding under the aurora borealis and observing the lights from hot springs.

Canada: Canada's northern regions, such as Yukon and Northwest Territories, offer excellent opportunities for observing the Northern Lights.
Visitors can enjoy winter activities like ice fishing and snowmobiling while waiting for the aurora to appear.

Iceland Iceland's geothermal activity and diverse landscapes make it a popular destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts.
The country's geysers, glaciers, and black sand beaches provide a stunning backdrop for aurora sightings.

Greenland: Greenland's Arctic wilderness offers a remote and untouched setting for witnessing the Northern Lights.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as iceberg cruises and cultural experiences with the indigenous Inuit population.

Norway: Norway's fjords and mountains provide a picturesque setting for viewing the Northern Lights.
Unique experiences include staying in traditional Sami tents and taking a cruise along the Norwegian coast to chase the aurora.

Dark, Clear Skies

Several factors contribute to the likelihood of witnessing the Northern Lights: as mentioned above, they are influenced by solar activity (the sun winds that bring the particles in our direction) the geomagnetic field, and atmospheric conditions. Auroras happen all the time if those conditions are granted...but because this amazing phenomenon causes light, we need it to be dark and be able to actually see it!

That is why the best time to see them is during the Northern winter peak season (December to early March) when the nights are longer, darker, and colder, and are best seen preferably away from city lights and with minimal cloud cover.

Aurora borealis and the Fox's tail

The celestial dancing lights are a captivating and awe-inspiring natural spectacle, attracting tourists and photographers from around the world to witness its beauty. But it has captivated humans for thousands of years. The Aurora Borealis holds significant cultural and mythological significance in many indigenous cultures of the Arctic regions. One such legend involves the fox, which is a notable figure in several northern mythologies.

In some indigenous folklore, the fox is believed to be responsible for creating the Aurora, suggesting that the fox runs across the northern landscape, its tail sweeping across the snow and creating sparks that light up the sky, forming the Northern Lights. In other variations of the legend, the fox is seen as a messenger between the spirit world and the human world, dancing across the sky while leaving behind colorful trails of light.

These legends highlight the deep connection between nature and spirituality in indigenous cultures and illustrate how the Aurora Borealis has inspired awe and wonder for generations...join us in a journey to enjoy them!