Understanding the Fascinating Phenomenon of The Northern Lights

Are you about to head out on a Northern Lights trip and keen to know more about the phenomenon before you go? Make sure you do plenty of reading and research and arm yourself with as much information as you can, as this will help you make the most of this incredible experience. A Northern Lights trip serves to fascinate, intrigue and impress in equal measure and is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will treasure in your memory forever.

The Science Behind Aurora Borealis

Even for those who don’t have a scientific mind, appreciating a few facts behind the Aurora Borealis - their scientific name - will give you a better insight into what you are actually seeing on your Northern Lights trip.

Many people are surprised when they discover that every single appearance of the lights is completely unique. Sometimes you might be witness to green bands of lights that stretch across the sky, while at other times the effect may be more smoky and rolling. Colours vary from green to violet and pink, and each is as stunning as the next, exuding a magnificent aura that most people find difficult to articulate in words.

Dreamlike, fantastical and almost surreal, the phenomenon can be explained in scientific terms. The sun is responsible for the display of the auroras and, during solar explosions, particles are catapulted away from the sun into space. It is when these meet the Earth’s magnetic shield that they are drawn to a circle around the North Pole and South Pole where an incredible natural light show takes place. (However, there are very few places to witness them around South Pole – they are called the Aurora Australis.) There is a distinct interaction between the particles and the upper atmospheric layers and the so-called Northern Lights are produced from the resulting energy released.

Be Prepared for a Waiting Game

The beauty of the phenomenon is that it is at the mercy of nature, and when on a Northern Lights trip, it must be remembered that you may have to exercise patience while waiting for the theatrical display to grace the skies. Local weather is the biggest influencing factor, but if you stay in the area a few days you have a very good chance of getting what you came for. Book with a specialised, reputable company and you will be well taken care of and offered the best chance of a sighting. These experts are well-versed in both the region and the phenomenon itself, so are able to ensure the best locations, the best times and the optimal time and opportunity for experiencing this wonderful natural light show.

Kevin Collins is director of Aurora Nights, a company offering a select range of once in a lifetime holidays to see the Northern Lights. For the best Northern Lights trip Iceland and Swedish Lapland offer an excellent chance to encounter the aurora borealis. Aurora Nights is part of Weekend a la Carte, a family-run company with vast in-depth knowledge based on their extensive travels to the region of the Aurora Borealis and passionate about giving superb client service.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.