Everything You Need to Know About Northern Lights Viewing Forecast

Are you planning to witness the magical Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, during your vacation? Then, you must be wondering how to predict and plan for this natural phenomenon. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about Northern Lights viewing forecast.

What are Northern Lights?

Northern Lights are a natural light display in the Earth’s atmosphere that can be seen in high-latitude regions. It is caused by the collision of particles emitted by the sun with the Earth’s magnetic field.

What is the Best Time to See Northern Lights?

Northern Lights are visible in the high-latitude regions, particularly in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months when the nights are long and dark. However, the Northern Lights are not visible every night, and their visibility depends on several factors.

Factors that Affect Northern Lights Visibility

There are several factors that affect Northern Lights visibility, such as:

Solar Activity:

The Northern Lights are caused by solar storms, which emit charged particles that interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When the solar activity is high, there are more chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Weather Conditions:

Cloudy weather can obstruct the view of Northern Lights. Therefore, clear weather is required to have a clear view of the Northern Lights.

Geographic Location:

The Northern Lights are visible in the high-latitude regions. Therefore, the closer you are to the magnetic poles, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

How is the Northern Lights Viewing Forecast Predicted?

Several organizations predict the Northern Lights viewing forecast. One such organization is the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which provides daily and 27-day Northern Lights forecast.

The SWPC uses various data and models to predict Northern Lights visibility, such as solar wind speed, density, and interplanetary magnetic field.

How to Check the Northern Lights Viewing Forecast?

There are various ways to check the Northern Lights viewing forecast. One of the most convenient ways is to check the SWPC website. On their website, you can find the Northern Lights forecast maps that show the probabilities of seeing the Northern Lights in different locations.

You can also download Northern Lights forecast apps that provide real-time information about the Northern Lights, such as Aurora Forecast and My Aurora Forecast.

Other Tips for Watching Northern Lights

Apart from checking the Northern Lights viewing forecast, here are some tips that can help you watch the Northern Lights:

Go to a Dark Place:

The Northern Lights are best viewed in a dark place with minimal light pollution. Therefore, choose a location away from city lights.

Dress Warmly:

Watching the Northern Lights involves standing outside in the cold for an extended period. Therefore, it is important to dress warmly with layers of warm clothing, gloves, and hats.

Be Patient:

The Northern Lights are sporadic and can appear and disappear quickly. Therefore, be patient and stay outside for a few hours to have the best chance of seeing them.

Conclusion

Watching the Northern Lights is a magical and unforgettable experience. By understanding the Northern Lights viewing forecast and following the tips mentioned above, you can increase your chances of experiencing this natural wonder.

Insiders Guide to Viewing Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska, situated in the heart of the Northern Lights belt, provides its visitors with some of the most incredible views of the Aurora borealis in the world. To make the most of your trip to the city, one must understand the Northern Lights viewing forecast. Here’s everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip.

Best Time for Northern Lights Viewing in Fairbanks

The Northern Lights season in Fairbanks starts from late August and lasts until April. The best time to view the lights is during the darkest months of mid-December to late February when the days are shorter. Also, the clearer the sky, the higher the likelihood of viewing the lights. Dress appropriately for the weather, layering up and bring along a thermos of hot beverage to stay warm while enjoying the spectacle.

Top Northern Lights Viewing Locations in Fairbanks

Dog Sledding is a fantastic way to experience the Northern Lights firsthand. Outfitters like Paws for Adventure and Black Spruce Dog Sledding offer overnight trips in remote cabins with unobstructed views of the Aurora. Alternatively, the Chena Hot Springs Resort, located 60 miles northeast of the city, provides majestic views of the aurora from pools to warm up in. Pay attention to the weather forecast before starting your journey, as snowmobiles or tours may be cancelled due to poor weather conditions.

Local Attraction and Activities in Fairbanks

Besides viewing the Northern Lights, Fairbanks offers a broad range of activities to its visitors. The Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center is a great place to start to learn about Alaska’s history and cultures, including indigenous people and gold rush history. The University of Alaska’s Museum of the North is another fascinating place to visit, with a vast collection of stunning natural history and exhibits to enjoy. Those interested in adventure sports should try snowmobiling, dog mushing, or exploring the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Dining Options in Fairbanks

Fairbanks offers a variety of dining options, serving traditional local cuisine, including moose stew, reindeer sausage, and fresh seafood. Local restaurants like the Silver Gulch Brewery and the famous Cookie Jar Restaurant are a must-visit. For an upscale dining experience, do not miss the 7-acre ice-sculpting Bar and Steakhouse at the Aurora Ice Museum.

Off-the-beaten-path Experiences in Fairbanks

The Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska, is a welcome spot to take a rest and snap a photo. Another less-trodden path deep into the Alaskan wilderness is the Skiland Ski Resort, which offers you a chance to ski on true Alaskan powder and view glimpses of the Aurora Borealis from the slopes. You also might want to try your hand fishing on the Chena River, snowmobiling in the wilds outside town, or taking a hot-air balloon ride over the frosty landscape.

In conclusion, Fairbanks, rightfully known for it’s Aurora Borealis spectacle, is a great destination. Plan your trip by keeping the Northern Lights viewing forecast in mind, visiting prime locations to view this natural wonder, enjoying local attractions and activities, and savoring exotic local food. Make sure to add some unique off-the-beaten-path experiences to give your trip that much-needed sense of adventure and excitement.