Can I see the Northern Lights in Alaska in June?

If you’re planning a trip to Alaska in June, you may be wondering if you’ll be lucky enough to witness the incredible natural phenomenon known as the Northern Lights. Also called the Aurora Borealis, this dazzling light show is caused by collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun entering the earth’s atmosphere and is typically seen in colder climates around the world.

However, the answer to the question of whether you can see the Northern Lights in Alaska in June is not a straightforward one. Let’s explore the factors that come into play when chasing the Aurora Borealis in Alaska.

Understanding the Northern Lights in Alaska

Alaska’s prime Northern Lights season typically runs from September to April, with the best time to see the lights being from December to March. This is when the nights are the longest and the sky is darkest, providing the perfect backdrop for the shimmering lights.

June, on the other hand, falls within Alaska’s summer season. While the days can be long and the sun may never fully set in some areas, the sky does have periods of darkness, especially in the northern parts of the state. So, there is potential to see the Northern Lights in Alaska in June.

Factors that Affect Northern Lights Visibility in Alaska

If you’re hoping to spot the Northern Lights in Alaska in June, it’s important to keep in mind a few key factors that can impact your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis. These include:

Solar Activity

Solar activity, in the form of solar flares and sunspots, is the main driver behind the Northern Lights. In order to increase your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis in Alaska in June, you’ll want to keep an eye on the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center’s 3-day forecast for geomagnetic activity. Higher levels of activity mean a greater likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights, regardless of the time of year.

Cloud Cover and Weather

Cloudy or overcast skies can make it difficult, if not impossible, to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. As with any stargazing or Aurora Borealis spotting, clear skies are key. In Alaska, weather conditions can change quickly, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast for your chosen location regularly ahead of your trip.

Location

While Alaska is a prime location for Northern Lights viewing, the best spots for catching the Aurora Borealis can vary depending on various factors such as light pollution, altitude, and proximity to electrical power lines. In general, the farther north and away from populated areas you are, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Alaska will be.

Best Locations to Spot the Northern Lights in Alaska in June

If you’re determined to try your luck at seeing the Northern Lights in Alaska in June, here are some locations to consider:

Fairbanks

As one of the most popular Northern Lights viewing locations in Alaska, Fairbanks is a great spot to try your luck in June. While the city does experience a period of light, it is still located at a high enough latitude to provide a chance to see the lights.

Coldfoot

Located north of Fairbanks, Coldfoot is situated within the Arctic Circle and offers a remote location for Northern Lights viewing. The long summer days will require late nights, but the potential reward for staying up to watch the night sky is well worth it.

Barrow

Barrow, Alaska is the northernmost city in the United States and offers some of the best Aurora Borealis viewing in the state, even during the summer months. However, be prepared for frigid temperatures, as it is one of the coldest places in Alaska.

Tips for Spotting the Northern Lights in Alaska in June

If you’re hoping to witness the Northern Lights in Alaska in June, here are a few tips to help increase your chances:

Choose a Dark Location

As mentioned earlier, reducing light pollution can greatly improve your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Choose a location away from bright city lights to increase your chances of catching the Aurora Borealis in June.

Check Solar Activity Forecasts

Keep an eye on the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center’s forecast for geomagnetic activity in order to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, regardless of the time of year.

Be Patient and Flexible

Remember that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and can be unpredictable. Don’t get your hopes up too high, and be ready to be patient and flexible with your plans in case the Aurora Borealis isn’t visible during your trip.

Conclusion

In short, while the prime season for catching the Northern Lights in Alaska typically runs from September to April, there is still potential to see the Aurora Borealis during the summer months, including June. However, it’s important to keep factors like solar activity, cloud cover, and location in mind, as they can greatly impact your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. With the right planning, timing, and a bit of luck, you may be able to see this stunning natural light show for yourself.