Essential Tips for Capturing the Northern Lights Solo in Any Location
Are you a budget-conscious adventurer who enjoys traveling without joining tours? Do you relish the freedom of exploring on your own terms, without having people telling you what to do and where to go? If so, you’re in luck! With a little planning and some insider tips, you can embark on your own Northern Lights expedition without breaking the bank.
Here’s how:
Check the Aurora Forecast: One of the keys to successfully spotting the Northern Lights is keeping an eye on the Aurora forecast. For over a decade, I’ve relied on the Aurora forecast provided by the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. This handy tool offers a 27-day forecast of the KP index (aurora activity), allowing you to select your travel destination region and receive predictions regarding the visibility of the Northern Lights at that location. Trust me, this forecast has never failed me!
Avoid Cloudy Days: Clear skies are essential for witnessing the Northern Lights in all their glory. Be mindful of the weather patterns in your chosen destination and try to avoid months known for heavy cloud cover. For example, November tends to be cloudier in Rovaniemi. By planning your trip during clearer months, you increase your chances of a successful sighting.
Escape Light Pollution: To maximize your chances of spotting the Northern Lights, venture away from city lights and light pollution. Seek out dark, remote locations where the night sky is unobstructed. While city lights can diminish the apparent brightness of the aurora, it’s still possible to catch a glimpse if you’re strategic in your planning. I’ve even witnessed the Northern Lights in Tromso city center despite the bright lights!
Click below locations to see the best low light pollution spots to see the Northern Lights :
Hunt during Peak Hours: While the Northern Lights can appear at any time during the night, the hours between 10 pm and 2 am typically offer the best viewing opportunities. Keep this window in mind when planning your aurora-hunting adventures, but don’t be discouraged from searching at other times during the night.
Dress Warmly: Remember, you’ll likely be spending extended periods outdoors in cold temperatures. Dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable, and don’t forget essentials like a hat, gloves, and thermal socks. Trust me, being properly dressed can make all the difference in your enjoyment of the experience.
Camera Gear: While it’s a misconception that the Northern Lights are only visible through a camera, capturing them with your own photography equipment can enhance the experience. Bring along a sturdy tripod and experiment with exposure settings to capture the magic. Remember, the camera may capture brighter images due to long exposures, but nothing beats the joy and awe of witnessing the aurora firsthand.
Visit during New Moon Period: To maximize your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights in all their glory, plan your trip during the new moon phase. During this New Moon phase, the night sky is darker as the moon is not visible, allowing the auroras to shine more brightly. The absence of moonlight enhances the contrast, making the Northern Lights even more vibrant and captivating. Plan your travels around the new moon phase using the lunar calendar for an optimal aurora-chasing experience.
Here are the dates of New Moon in 2024:
11/01/2024, 09/02/2024, 10/03/2024, 08/04/2024, 03/09/2024, 02/10/2024, 01/11/2024, 01/12/2024, 31/12/2024
Armed with these tips, you’re ready to embark on your own Northern Lights adventure without breaking the bank. So grab your gear, check the forecast, and get ready to witness nature’s most dazzling light show!
