Auroras in Flight: Capturing the Northern Lights from Above
The Northern Lights, or Auroras (Aurora Borealis), are one of nature’s most mesmerizing spectacles, captivating skywatchers for centuries. Their vibrant greens, purples, and reds dancing across the night sky are often considered a bucket list experience. While many travelers venture to remote locations on the ground for a glimpse of this phenomenon, witnessing auroras from the sky during a flight offers a unique and unforgettable perspective.
This blog will guide you through the science behind the auroras, the best times and places to see them from a plane, tips for maximizing your chances, and even the best airlines and flight routes to book for this magical experience.
What Are the Northern Lights?
The auroras are a natural light display caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with the Earth’s atmosphere. These particles, carried by the solar wind, interact with gases in our planet’s atmosphere, producing vibrant light displays.
- Colors of the Lights:
The color of the auroras depends on the type of gas involved in the collisions. Oxygen at higher altitudes produces red auroras, while at lower altitudes, it creates green. Nitrogen contributes to blue or purplish hues. - Auroral Oval:
The auroras are most often seen near the Earth’s magnetic poles, forming an oval-shaped zone of activity. This means the best views are typically in high-latitude regions, such as Scandinavia, Canada, Alaska, and Iceland.
Why See the Northern Lights from a Plane?
Viewing the auroras from an airplane offers unique advantages:
- Unobstructed View:
At 35,000 feet, you’re above much of the atmosphere, clouds, and light pollution that can obscure ground-based aurora views. - Dynamic Perspectives:
The motion of the plane allows you to experience the auroras from different angles, adding a dynamic element to the spectacle. - Convenience:
Unlike braving cold nights outdoors, a flight offers a warm, comfortable setting to witness the lights.
When Is the Best Time to See the Northern Lights from a Plane?
- Peak Aurora Season:
The best months are between September and March, when the nights are longest in the Northern Hemisphere. - Solar Activity:
Auroras are tied to solar activity, which follows an 11-year cycle. The current solar maximum, predicted to peak around 2025, means the winter of 2024-2025 will likely be one of the best times to witness auroras. - Optimal Flight Times:
Midnight to 4 a.m. offers the darkest skies and the most vibrant auroras.
Best Flight Routes for Aurora Viewing
Certain flight routes are better positioned for aurora viewing due to their proximity to the auroral oval. Below are some of the best options:
- North America to Europe:
- Routes between cities like New York and Reykjavik or Seattle and Helsinki often pass through aurora-rich regions.
- Flights to Alaska:
- Domestic flights from the continental U.S. to Anchorage or Fairbanks provide excellent chances for aurora spotting.
- Scandinavian Flights:
- Flights within Norway, Sweden, and Finland often traverse aurora-prone areas.
- Polar Flights:
- Some transpolar routes between North America and Asia may cross the auroral zone.
Airlines Offering Aurora Viewing Experiences
Some airlines go above and beyond to make aurora viewing a part of the flight experience:
- Icelandair:
- Known for its aurora-themed planes, Icelandair often routes flights over areas with high aurora activity.
- Finnair:
- Routes to and from Finland are strategically placed to maximize aurora viewing opportunities.
- Alaska Airlines:
- Domestic flights to Alaska frequently offer passengers views of the Northern Lights.
Tips for Maximizing Your Aurora Viewing Experience in Flight
- Choose the Right Seat:
- Window Seat: For the best views, book a window seat on the side of the plane facing away from city lights.
- Northern Side: On northward routes, sit on the left-hand side of the plane; on southward routes, sit on the right-hand side.
- Monitor Aurora Forecasts:
- Websites and apps like the Aurora Forecast or SpaceWeatherLive provide real-time aurora activity predictions. Look for a KP index of 4 or higher for the best chance of seeing auroras.
- Dim Cabin Lights:
- Cabin lights can interfere with your ability to see auroras. Politely ask the flight crew if they can lower the lights during your journey.
- Be Prepared with the Right Gear:
- Photography: Bring a camera with manual settings and a wide aperture. Use a high ISO and long exposure to capture the lights.
- Comfort: Wear an eye mask for sleeping while you wait for the auroras to appear.
- Stay Alert:
- Auroras can appear suddenly and last for minutes or hours. Stay awake and keep an eye on the window!
Aurora Viewing from Chartered Flights
For a more tailored experience, some companies offer charter flights specifically designed for aurora viewing.
- Northern Lights Flights:
- Specialty flights from cities like Anchorage, Tromsø, or Reykjavik take passengers above clouds and weather systems for a guaranteed aurora experience.
- Features:
- These flights often include expert guides who explain the science behind auroras and provide tips for photographing them.
Auroras Beyond the Northern Hemisphere: The Southern Lights
While less commonly discussed, the Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis, offer similar experiences in the Southern Hemisphere. Flights over Antarctica or southern Australia provide opportunities to see this phenomenon.
The Environmental Impact of Aurora Flights
As interest in aurora viewing grows, so does the need to consider the environmental impact of increased flight activity. Airlines and travelers can take steps to mitigate their carbon footprint:
- Fly Direct:
- Choose direct flights to reduce emissions.
- Carbon Offsetting:
- Many airlines offer carbon offset programs to compensate for emissions.
- Eco-Friendly Airlines:
- Support airlines committed to sustainability and fuel efficiency.
The Magic of Auroras: A Personal Testimonial
Many travelers describe seeing the Northern Lights from a plane as a life-changing moment. Imagine sitting in a dimly lit cabin, staring out at a canvas of stars when suddenly, vibrant streaks of green and purple emerge, swirling and dancing across the sky. It’s a serene, almost otherworldly experience that leaves you in awe of nature’s power and beauty.
Conclusion
Seeing the Northern Lights from a plane is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines the wonder of flight with one of nature’s most spectacular displays. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time flyer, planning your journey with auroras in mind can turn an ordinary flight into an extraordinary adventure.
As the winter of 2024 approaches, consider booking a flight along aurora-prone routes. With a bit of luck, preparation, and the right conditions, you may find yourself witnessing the dazzling dance of the Northern Lights from above—a memory that will last a lifetime.
