Can You See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks Alaska in July?

If you are planning to see the northern lights, also known as aurora borealis, then you might be wondering if it is possible in Fairbanks, Alaska during July. The northern lights are a natural display of lights in the sky that can be seen only in certain parts of the world. In this article, we will explore the possibility of seeing the northern lights in Fairbanks, Alaska during July.

An Overview of the Northern Lights

The northern lights are the result of the interaction between the charged particles from the sun and the earth’s atmosphere. When these charged particles collide with earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere, they create a stunning display of lights in the sky, known as aurora borealis.

The northern lights are visible in the high-latitude areas of the world such as Alaska, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Canada. The northern lights are most commonly visible in the months of September to April, due to the long dark nights in these regions.

Is It Possible to See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska in July?

Fairbanks, Alaska is one of the most popular destinations to view the northern lights. However, Fairbanks, Alaska experiences daylight for nearly 24 hours in July. This means that it is not possible to see the northern lights during this time. The long hours of daylight, combined with the sun’s intense energy, make it impossible to see the northern lights during these months.

To see the northern lights, you need to have dark skies, and the months of May to August are not ideal for viewing the natural phenomenon. Visitors to Fairbanks, Alaska during July can enjoy other outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping in the beautiful Alaskan wilderness.

The Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

The best time to see the northern lights in Fairbanks, Alaska is during the months of December to March. During these months, the nights are longer, and the skies are clearer, providing optimal viewing conditions. The northern lights can be viewed from late August to early April. However, the best viewing months are December and January.

Where to See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska is a great place to view the northern lights. The city is located in the Auroral Oval, an area that is known for frequent and intense auroras. The vibrant and colourful lights can be seen from a variety of locations in and around Fairbanks.

The best places to view the northern lights in Fairbanks, Alaska are Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, Murphy Dome, Ester Dome, University of Alaska Fairbanks, and Chena Hot Springs Resort. The best viewing times are between 11:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m.

Conclusion

In conclusion, seeing the northern lights is an exciting and unique experience that is worth planning for. While it is not possible to see the northern lights in Fairbanks, Alaska during July, visitors can still enjoy the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. However, if you are hoping to see the northern lights, then planning a trip to Fairbanks, Alaska during the winter months from December to March is your best bet. Remember to check the weather forecast and make sure to find a good viewing spot away from the city lights for an amazing aurora borealis experience.