The mesmerising spectacle of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) has drawn people to the Arctic for centuries. As 2025 approaches, there's a lot of excitement about the potential for amazing displays. This guide will help you understand what causes these lights, when and where you're most likely to see them, and how to make the most of your aurora adventure.

Key Takeaways

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field.

2025 is predicted to be a period of increased solar activity, potentially leading to more frequent and vibrant aurora displays.

The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the darkest months, typically September to April, with peak viewing hours between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m.

Prime viewing locations are within the Arctic Circle, in areas with minimal light pollution, such as Greenland, Iceland, and Svalbard.

To maximise your chances of a sighting, check aurora forecasts, find dark skies, be patient, dress warmly, and consider using a camera with a long exposure setting.

Understanding The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)

What are the northern lights? The aurora borealis explained | Natural History Museum — Northern Lights

The aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, is a natural light show that paints the night sky with vibrant colours. It's a phenomenon that has fascinated people for ages, and understanding how it happens can make witnessing it even more special. Essentially, it's a cosmic interaction between the sun and our planet's atmosphere.

The Science Behind The Celestial Dance

At its core, the aurora is caused by particles from the sun colliding with gases in Earth's upper atmosphere. Think of it like a giant, natural neon sign. When these energetic particles, primarily electrons and protons, enter our atmosphere, they excite the gas molecules. This excitation causes the gases to release energy in the form of light, creating the beautiful displays we see.

Charged Particles and Atmospheric Interactions

These charged particles travel from the sun as the solar wind. As they approach Earth, our planet's magnetic field, known as the magnetosphere, acts like a shield, deflecting most of them. However, some particles get trapped and are guided by the magnetic field lines towards the North and South Poles. When these particles reach the upper atmosphere, typically between 60 to 600 miles (100 to 1,000 kilometres) above the surface, they collide with atoms and molecules of gases like oxygen and nitrogen. The colour of the light produced depends on which gas is hit and at what altitude.

Oxygen: At lower altitudes (around 60-150 miles or 100-240 km), oxygen typically emits a green light, which is the most common colour. At higher altitudes (above 150 miles or 240 km), oxygen can produce a red hue.
Nitrogen: Nitrogen molecules tend to produce blue or purple-pink colours, often seen at the lower edges of auroral displays.

The Sun's Influence on Auroral Displays

The intensity and frequency of auroral displays are directly linked to the sun's activity. The sun has an approximately 11-year cycle, moving between periods of high activity (solar maximum) and low activity (solar minimum). During solar maximum, the sun releases more charged particles and experiences more frequent solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These events send a greater volume of energetic particles towards Earth, leading to more spectacular and widespread auroras. Therefore, understanding the sun's current activity is key to predicting when and where the Northern Lights might be visible.

The solar wind, a stream of charged particles released from the upper atmosphere of the Sun, travels through space. When this solar wind encounters Earth's magnetic field, it can cause disturbances that lead to the aurora.

Solar Activity and The 2025 Outlook

Northern Lights Facts - Learn about Aurora Borealis - Wandering Owl ???? — Northern Lights dancing in a starry night sky.

The spectacle of the Northern Lights is directly tied to the sun's behaviour. Our star operates on an approximately 11-year cycle, moving between periods of high and low activity. This cycle influences the frequency and intensity of solar events that can trigger auroral displays on Earth.

The Sunspot Cycle Explained

The sunspot cycle is a measure of the sun's magnetic activity. During periods of high activity, known as solar maximum, the sun develops more sunspots. These are temporary phenomena on the Sun's photosphere that appear darker than surrounding areas because they are regions of reduced surface temperature caused by concentrations of magnetic field flux that inhibit convection. More sunspots generally mean more solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which are bursts of charged particles and magnetic field from the Sun's corona. These events are the primary drivers of auroras.

Geomagnetic Storms and Their Impact

When CMEs or solar flares release a significant amount of charged particles and magnetic energy towards Earth, they can cause geomagnetic storms. These storms are disturbances in Earth's magnetosphere, the region of space around our planet where the magnetic field is dominant. During a geomagnetic storm, these energetic particles are channelled by Earth's magnetic field towards the poles. As they collide with gases in our atmosphere, they excite these gases, causing them to emit light – the aurora. The stronger the geomagnetic storm, the more widespread and vibrant the auroral display can be, sometimes allowing sightings at lower latitudes than usual.

Predictions for Increased Auroral Activity

Scientists have predicted that 2025 will coincide with a solar maximum. This means we can anticipate a period of heightened solar activity, leading to a greater likelihood of significant geomagnetic storms. Consequently, 2025 is shaping up to be an excellent year for aurora viewing. The years immediately following a solar maximum are often also very favourable for aurora sightings, as the solar activity gradually decreases but still produces strong events. Therefore, the period around 2025 and into the following few years is considered prime time for anyone hoping to witness the Northern Lights.

Solar Cycle Phase	Sunspot Activity	Likelihood of Auroras
Solar Maximum	High	Very High
Solar Minimum	Low	Low

Optimal Timing For Aurora Viewing

Figuring out the best time to see the Northern Lights can feel a bit like a guessing game, but there are definitely ways to improve your odds. It's not just about luck; understanding the patterns of the aurora and the Earth's environment makes a big difference.

The Darkest Months For Visibility

While auroras happen all year round, your chances of actually seeing them are much higher during the darker months. This is pretty straightforward: the less daylight there is, the easier it is to spot the aurora's glow against the night sky. Generally, the period from September through to April offers the longest nights in the prime viewing locations. Think of it this way: longer nights mean more hours of darkness, and therefore, more opportunities for the aurora to put on a show. It's also worth considering the weather during these months. While you might be tempted by the deep winter cold for that classic snowy landscape, remember that very cold weather can also mean more cloud cover in some regions. Finding a balance between dark skies and clearer weather is key.

Peak Hours for Auroral Activity

Even within a dark night, there are certain times when the aurora is more likely to be active. Most aurora watchers find that the period between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. local time is often the most productive. This window aligns with the Earth's position relative to the sun and the flow of charged particles. However, it's not a hard and fast rule. Major solar events can cause auroras to appear at any time during the night. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on aurora forecasts, as they can give you a heads-up about potential activity spikes outside these typical peak hours. Patience is definitely a virtue when aurora hunting; sometimes the most spectacular displays happen just when you're about to give up.

The Significance of March and October

When you look at long-term data, a couple of months stand out for their increased geomagnetic activity. Studies have shown that March, in particular, tends to have more days with significant geomagnetic activity than any other month. October is also a strong contender, often coming in second. This heightened activity means there's a greater chance of the solar particles interacting with our atmosphere, leading to more frequent and potentially more intense auroral displays. While you can see the aurora in any of the dark months, planning a trip around March or October might just give you that statistical edge you're looking for. It's a subtle advantage, but for dedicated aurora chasers, every little bit helps in the quest to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.

Prime Locations For The Northern Lights

When planning your quest to witness the aurora borealis, selecting the right location is paramount. While the lights can appear at lower latitudes during periods of intense solar activity, your best bet for a clear and frequent display lies within the auroral zone. This is the region roughly within 2,500 kilometres of the North Pole, where auroral activity is most concentrated. Beyond simply being in the right geographical band, minimising light pollution is key. Urban sprawl and artificial lighting can easily wash out the subtle glow of the aurora, so seeking out remote, dark skies is a priority.

The Auroral Zone Advantage

The auroral zone is essentially the sweet spot for aurora viewing. It's the area where Earth's magnetic field lines converge, channelling charged particles from the sun directly into the upper atmosphere. This concentration of activity means that locations within this zone have a significantly higher probability of experiencing auroral displays, even on nights with moderate solar activity. Think of it as being closer to the source of the spectacle.

Destinations Within The Arctic Circle

Many of the most celebrated aurora destinations are situated within the Arctic Circle. This geographical advantage places them directly under the auroral oval for much of the year. Countries like Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Greenland all offer incredible opportunities. Each provides a unique cultural and natural backdrop to your aurora hunt, from the dramatic fjords of Norway to the volcanic landscapes of Iceland.

Minimising Light Pollution for Clearer Views

Even within the auroral zone, light pollution can be a significant hindrance. Cities and towns, with their abundant streetlights and illuminated buildings, create a bright sky that can obscure fainter auroral displays. To truly appreciate the aurora's magic, it's advisable to venture away from populated centres. National parks, remote wilderness areas, and designated dark sky reserves are ideal. These locations are specifically managed to preserve natural darkness, offering the clearest possible views of the night sky and, hopefully, the dancing lights above.

Key Destinations For Your Aurora Adventure

When planning your quest to witness the Northern Lights, selecting the right location is paramount. Certain regions offer a distinct advantage due to their geographical positioning and minimal light pollution. These prime spots are often within or close to the Arctic Circle, where the Earth's magnetic field funnels charged particles from the sun, creating the most vibrant auroral displays.

Experiencing Greenland's Vast Landscapes

Greenland, with its expansive, sparsely populated terrain, presents an exceptional canvas for the aurora. The lack of significant urban centres means light pollution is rarely an issue, allowing the celestial show to dominate the night sky. Towns like Ilulissat and Kangerlussuaq are particularly well-situated within the Arctic Circle, offering opportunities to combine aurora viewing with unique Arctic activities such as dog sledding. Venturing into Greenland's remote areas can provide an unparalleled, intimate experience with the aurora, far from any crowds.

Iceland's Natural Wonders and Dark Skies

Iceland has become a favoured destination for aurora enthusiasts, and for good reason. Its position straddling the Arctic Circle, coupled with its dramatic volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and waterfalls, provides a stunning foreground for the dancing lights. Regions like the Westfjords and North Iceland are renowned for their dark skies and clear weather patterns, increasing the likelihood of a sighting. Even areas closer to the capital, such as Thingvellir National Park, can offer good viewing opportunities away from the city's glow. Planning a trip to Iceland is made easier with numerous tour operators and accommodation options catering to aurora watchers.

Svalbard: A Glimpse of the High Arctic

For those seeking a truly high-latitude experience, Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago situated far north of the mainland, is an extraordinary choice. This remote destination offers long winter nights, ideal for aurora viewing, and a dramatic landscape of fjords and mountains. Longyearbyen, the main settlement, serves as a base for exploring this unique Arctic environment. The sheer remoteness of Svalbard means that light pollution is virtually non-existent, offering some of the darkest skies available for aurora photography and observation. It's a place where the aurora can feel incredibly close and personal, a true immersion into the Arctic wilderness.

Maximising Your Chances Of A Sighting

Seeing the Northern Lights is a truly special experience, but it does require a bit of planning and patience. It's not quite as simple as just stepping outside on a clear night. Several factors come into play, and by paying attention to them, you can significantly improve your odds of witnessing this incredible natural light show.

Consulting Aurora Forecasts

Keeping an eye on the aurora forecast is probably the most important step you can take. Think of it like checking the weather, but for space weather. Websites and apps that track solar activity and geomagnetic storms are your best friends here. They provide real-time data and predictions, letting you know when conditions are favourable for an aurora display. Look for forecasts that mention the Kp-index; a higher number, especially Kp 5 or above, generally indicates a stronger and more widespread aurora. Some services even offer alerts for significant geomagnetic storms, which are prime opportunities for viewing.

Seeking Out Dark Sky Locations

Light pollution is the enemy of aurora viewing. City lights, streetlights, and even illuminated buildings can wash out the faint glow of the aurora, making it difficult or impossible to see. The darker your surroundings, the better your chances. This means venturing away from urban centres. National parks, designated dark sky reserves, or simply remote rural areas are ideal. If you're near a large body of water, a spot on the southern shore with a clear view to the north can also be excellent, as water often reflects less light than land.

Patience and Warmth: Essential Companions

Auroras don't always appear on cue. Sometimes, you might wait for hours in the cold before the lights begin to dance. It's vital to be prepared for this. Dressing in warm, layered clothing is non-negotiable. Think thermal base layers, insulated outerwear, warm gloves, a hat that covers your ears, and sturdy, insulated boots. Bringing a thermos with a hot drink can also make a huge difference to your comfort. Remember, the longer you stay out, the higher your chances of a sighting. It's a waiting game, but the reward is often well worth the wait.

Here's a quick checklist for preparing for a cold night of aurora hunting:

Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms.
Mid Layers: Fleece or wool for insulation.
Outerwear: A windproof and waterproof insulated jacket and trousers.
Extremities: Warm, insulated gloves, a thick hat, and warm socks.
Footwear: Insulated, waterproof boots.

Sometimes, even when the forecast looks promising, the aurora might be faint or hidden by clouds. It's important to manage expectations and remember that the experience of being out in the Arctic night, under a sky full of stars, is magical in itself, even if the aurora doesn't make a grand appearance.

Capturing The Magic: Aurora Photography

Witnessing the aurora borealis is a truly special experience, and capturing it on camera can be incredibly rewarding. While the dancing lights are a sight to behold with your own eyes, a photograph can preserve that memory for years to come. However, aurora photography presents its own set of challenges, from the low light conditions to the unpredictable nature of the displays themselves. Getting a great shot requires a bit of preparation and understanding of your equipment.

Essential Camera Gear and Settings

To get started with aurora photography, you'll need a camera that allows for manual control over settings. A DSLR or mirrorless camera is ideal, but many modern smartphones can also produce surprisingly good results with the right approach. A sturdy tripod is non-negotiable; it will keep your camera perfectly still during the long exposures needed to capture the faint light of the aurora.

When it comes to settings, think about a wide aperture (low f-number, like f/2.8 or lower) to let in as much light as possible. Shutter speed will vary depending on the aurora's brightness and movement, but starting around 10-20 seconds is a good point. For ISO, aim for a balance – too low and you won't capture enough light, too high and you'll introduce unwanted digital noise. An ISO between 800 and 3200 is often a good starting range. Always shoot in RAW format if your camera allows; this gives you much more flexibility when editing your photos later.

Here's a quick reference for starting settings:

Setting	Recommendation
Aperture	f/2.8 or wider
Shutter Speed	10-20 seconds (adjust based on aurora)
ISO	800-3200 (adjust for brightness and noise)
Focus	Manual focus to infinity
White Balance	Auto or Daylight (can be adjusted in post)

Techniques for Low-Light Photography

Capturing the aurora is all about managing low light. One of the most important techniques is to ensure your camera is focused correctly. Since autofocus can struggle in the dark, switch to manual focus and set it to infinity. You might need to experiment slightly, as 'infinity' on a lens doesn't always mean the absolute furthest point. Take a test shot of a distant star or bright object and zoom in to check sharpness.

When the aurora is faint, it can be difficult to see with the naked eye. A good tip is to use your camera to 'scan' the sky. If your camera picks up subtle colours or shapes that you can't quite see, you know where to direct your attention. Remember that the colours you see through the camera, especially with longer exposures, might be more vibrant than what your eyes perceive in real-time. However, don't forget to put the camera down occasionally and just soak in the spectacle; the human eye can perceive movement and depth in ways a still photograph cannot.

Patience is truly a virtue when photographing the aurora. You might wait for hours in the cold, and sometimes the display is fleeting. It's important to be prepared for the conditions, dress warmly, and be ready to act quickly when the lights appear. The effort is almost always worth the breathtaking results.

Using Remote Triggers for Stability

To avoid any camera shake when pressing the shutter button, especially during those long exposures, using a remote trigger or a self-timer is highly recommended. A remote trigger allows you to take the photo without touching the camera at all. This is particularly useful if you're using a very long exposure or if you want to keep your hands warm in your pockets while still being ready to capture the moment. Many cameras have a built-in 2-second or 10-second timer, which can also help minimise vibrations. For the best results and maximum stability, a dedicated cable release or a wireless remote is the way to go.

Beyond The Green: Aurora Colour Variations

While the vibrant green hue is the most commonly observed colour of the aurora, the celestial display is capable of producing a surprising spectrum of colours. These variations are not random; they are directly linked to the specific gases within Earth's atmosphere that are being energised by incoming solar particles, and the altitude at which these interactions occur.

Oxygen's Role in Green and Red Hues

Oxygen is a primary contributor to the aurora's colours. When charged particles from the sun collide with oxygen atoms at lower altitudes, typically between 100 and 300 kilometres (60 to 190 miles) above the Earth, they emit a distinct green light. This is the most frequent colour seen and is often the most intense. However, oxygen can also produce red light. This occurs at higher altitudes, generally above 300 kilometres (around 180 to 250 miles), where oxygen atoms have a different energy state. The red aurora is often fainter and appears as a softer glow at the upper edges of the display.

Nitrogen's Contribution to Blue and Purple

Nitrogen molecules also play a part in the aurora's colour palette. When solar particles interact with nitrogen at lower altitudes, they can produce shades of blue and purple. These colours are less common than green and red, and they tend to appear at the lower boundaries of the auroral curtains. The specific shade can vary depending on the energy of the particles and the precise composition of the nitrogen molecules involved.

Understanding Colour Intensity Factors

The intensity and visibility of these colours are influenced by several factors. The strength of the solar storm is paramount; more energetic solar winds can excite a wider range of atmospheric gases and at greater depths, leading to more vivid and varied colours. The angle at which the solar particles strike the atmosphere also plays a role. Furthermore, the Earth's magnetic field channels these particles towards the poles, and the density of the atmosphere at different altitudes dictates which gases are most likely to be energised.

It's worth noting that while green and red are produced by oxygen, and blue/purple by nitrogen, the exact appearance can be a complex interplay. Sometimes, you might see a mix of colours blending together, creating a truly mesmerising spectacle.

The colours we see in the aurora are a direct result of the physics of light emission. Different gases, when energised by solar particles, release photons of specific wavelengths, which our eyes perceive as distinct colours. It's a beautiful demonstration of atmospheric chemistry in action.

Here's a simplified breakdown:

Green: Oxygen at lower altitudes (100-300 km)
Red: Oxygen at higher altitudes (above 300 km)
Blue/Purple: Nitrogen at lower altitudes

Observing these different colours can offer a subtle clue about the specific atmospheric layers being most affected by the solar activity at any given time.

The Phenomenon of STEVE

What is Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement?

STEVE, an acronym for Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement, is a fascinating atmospheric display that often gets mistaken for the aurora. Unlike the familiar curtains of light, STEVE typically appears as a distinct, narrow arc. Its colour is often a striking purple, and it can sometimes feature a unique 'picket-fence' pattern of vertical green lines that drift slowly westward. This phenomenon is a relatively recent discovery in scientific terms, with the first detailed paper published in 2018.

Its Connection to Auroral Activity

While STEVE shares some characteristics with the aurora, its formation process is slightly different. The purple streaks are thought to be caused by the heating of charged particles in the upper atmosphere. The accompanying green 'picket-fence' structure, however, is believed to be caused by electrons entering the atmosphere, which is the same mechanism that drives the traditional aurora. This dual nature makes STEVE a sort of hybrid event, linked to but distinct from the aurora borealis and australis.

Distinguishing STEVE from Traditional Auroras

One of the key differences lies in its visibility. STEVE can often be seen at lower latitudes, closer to the equator, than typical auroral displays. This means that observers in areas that don't usually experience the northern lights might have a chance to witness STEVE. Its appearance is also more structured, often presenting as a defined arc rather than the more diffuse, wavy patterns of the aurora.

Here's a quick comparison:

Feature	STEVE	Traditional Aurora (Borealis/Australis)
Appearance	Narrow, distinct arc; often purple	Diffuse curtains, waves, or rays
Associated Forms	Green 'picket-fence' structure possible	Varied shapes and colours
Latitude	Visible at lower latitudes than auroras	Typically visible at higher latitudes
Formation	Particle heating and electron precipitation	Primarily electron precipitation

Resources For Aurora Enthusiasts

6 places to see the Northern Lights in Europe | National Geographic

For those captivated by the aurora, a wealth of resources exists to deepen your knowledge and improve your chances of a sighting. Staying informed about solar activity and aurora forecasts is key to planning a successful trip. Several organisations provide real-time data and predictions that can be incredibly helpful.

Real-Time Aurora Forecast Websites

Keeping an eye on the sky requires up-to-date information. Websites dedicated to space weather often provide detailed forecasts for auroral activity. These sites can help you understand the likelihood of seeing the lights on any given night, based on current solar wind conditions and geomagnetic activity. Checking these forecasts regularly is a good habit for any aurora chaser.

Citizen Science and Sighting Reports

Engaging with citizen science projects can offer a unique perspective on aurora activity. Platforms that allow users to report sightings contribute to a broader understanding of where and when the aurora is visible. This crowdsourced data can be particularly useful for identifying local viewing opportunities and understanding patterns that might not be captured by official forecasts alone. It’s a great way to connect with a community of fellow aurora enthusiasts.

Live Aurora Webcams for Instant Viewing

If you cannot travel or want to check conditions remotely, live aurora webcams are an excellent option. Many locations in prime aurora viewing areas have webcams that stream footage 24/7. This allows you to see the current sky conditions and, if you're lucky, witness the aurora in real-time. It’s a fantastic way to experience the magic of the northern lights from anywhere in the world.

Your Aurora Adventure Awaits

So, there you have it. The Northern Lights are a truly amazing sight, and with 2025 predicted to be a peak year for solar activity, your chances of seeing them are looking good. Remember to plan ahead, find a spot away from city lights, and dress warmly. Whether you're heading to the Arctic Circle or just keeping an eye on the sky from closer to home, the aurora borealis offers a chance to witness something truly special. It’s a reminder of the incredible power and beauty of our planet and the wider universe. Happy aurora hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are beautiful coloured lights that appear in the sky, mainly near the North Pole. They happen when tiny bits of energy from the sun hit the air high up in our sky. Think of it like a giant, natural light show!

Why do the Northern Lights happen?

It all starts with the sun. The sun sends out tiny charged particles. When these particles travel towards Earth, our planet's magnetic field guides them towards the North and South Poles. As they enter our atmosphere, they bump into gases, and this collision creates the glowing lights we see.

Will 2025 be a good year to see the Northern Lights?

Yes, 2025 is predicted to be a fantastic year! Scientists expect more activity from the sun, which usually means the Northern Lights will be brighter and more widespread. It's a great time to plan a trip!

When is the best time of year to see them?

The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the darker, colder months, generally from September through to April. The darkest hours of the night, typically between 9 PM and 3 AM, are often the most active times.

Where are the best places to see the Northern Lights?

You'll have the best luck in places close to the North Pole, like areas within the Arctic Circle. Countries such as Iceland, Greenland, and parts of Norway and Sweden are popular choices because they offer dark skies away from city lights.

How can I increase my chances of seeing them?

To improve your chances, always check the aurora forecast before you go. Try to find a spot far away from any town or city lights, as darkness is key. Patience is also important; sometimes you have to wait a while for the show to begin!

What colours can the Northern Lights be?

While green is the most common colour, the Northern Lights can also appear in shades of pink, purple, and even red. These colours depend on which gases the sun's particles are hitting in our atmosphere, like oxygen and nitrogen.

What is STEVE?

STEVE is a different kind of sky light that sometimes appears alongside the Northern Lights. It looks like a thin, purple ribbon, and while it's related to the same solar activity, it's caused by slightly different processes in the atmosphere.

Witnessing The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Your Guide to Seeing Them in 2025

Sara Srifi

Wed Sep 24 2025

Your guide to seeing The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in 2025. Learn about solar activity, prime locations, and photography tips for this celestial spectacle.