Northern Lights

The Northern Lights: A Comprehensive Guide to the Aurora Borealis

What Are the Northern Lights?

Definition: The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are natural light displays that occur in the polar regions. They are caused by the interaction between solar wind (charged particles emitted by the sun) and the Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere. The lights are caused by the collision of solar wind and magnetospheric charged particles with the high altitude atmosphere. Iceland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, due to its location just below the Arctic Circle and its clear, dark skies.
Scientific Explanation:
- Solar Activity: The sun emits a continuous stream of charged particles known as the solar wind. During solar storms, this activity increases, sending more particles toward Earth.
- Atmospheric Interaction: When these charged particles collide with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere (primarily oxygen and nitrogen), they excite these atoms, causing them to emit light. The color of the light depends on the type of gas and its altitude:
  - Green: Most common, produced by oxygen at lower altitudes (up to 150 km).
  - Red: Produced by oxygen at higher altitudes (above 150 km).
  - Purple/Violet: Produced by nitrogen at lower altitudes.
  - Blue: Produced by nitrogen at higher altitudes.

When Is It Best Viewed?

Optimal Months:
- September to March: This period offers the longest nights and the best chances for clear skies. The equinoxes in late September and March often see increased auroral activity due to geomagnetic storms.
Time of Night:
- Late Evening to Early Morning: The auroras are most visible between 10 PM and 2 AM, but they can appear anytime during the night. It’s advisable to stay out for several hours to increase your chances of witnessing them.
Seasonal Considerations:
- Winter Months: The cold, dry air of winter often leads to clearer skies. However, be prepared for extreme cold in some locations, and dress accordingly.

Where to View the Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland is one of the premier destinations for witnessing the Northern Lights due to its unique landscapes, minimal light pollution, and accessibility. Here are some of the best locations and guidelines for viewing the auroras in Iceland:

Top Locations in Iceland for Northern Lights Viewing

Thingvellir National Park
- Description: A UNESCO World Heritage site located about 45 minutes from Reykjavik, Thingvellir offers stunning landscapes and dark skies, making it an excellent spot for aurora viewing.
- Access: Easily accessible by car, with several parking areas available.
Snaefellsnes Peninsula
- Description: Known for its dramatic scenery, including mountains, beaches, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, this area provides numerous vantage points for aurora photography.
- Access: Approximately 2 hours from Reykjavik, with various locations along the peninsula to choose from.
Reykjavik
- Description: While the city itself has light pollution, you can find darker spots on the outskirts, such as the Grotta Lighthouse, which is a popular local viewing area.
- Access: Easily reachable by public transport or car, making it convenient for those staying in the city.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Description: This stunning glacial lagoon, located in southeast Iceland, offers a breathtaking backdrop of icebergs and the auroras reflecting on the water.
- Access: About a 4.5-hour drive from Reykjavik, but the scenery along the way is spectacular.
Kirkjufell Mountain
- Description: Often referred to as the most photographed mountain in Iceland, Kirkjufell provides a picturesque foreground for aurora photography.
- Access: Located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, it’s about a 2-hour drive from Reykjavik.
Akureyri
- Description: The capital of North Iceland, Akureyri offers good aurora viewing opportunities in nearby areas, such as the Eyjafjörður fjord.
- Access: Approximately 4.5 hours from Reykjavik, with several dark spots around the town.
Þingvellir National Park
- Description: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park is not only historically significant but also offers excellent conditions for aurora viewing due to its elevation and dark skies.
- Access: About 45 minutes from Reykjavik, with ample parking and facilities.

Technical Aspects

KPI Index:
- Kp Index:
  - Ranges from 0 (no activity) to 9 (extreme activity). A Kp index of 5 or higher indicates that the auroras may be visible at lower latitudes.
  - Monitoring Tools: Websites like NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center provide real-time Kp index updates.
Weather Conditions:
- Clear Skies: Check local weather forecasts for cloud cover. Apps like “My Aurora Forecast” can help track aurora activity and weather conditions.
- Moon Phase: A new moon is ideal for viewing, as less moonlight means darker skies.

Photography Tips for Capturing the Northern Lights

Equipment:
- Camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings is essential for capturing the auroras.
- Lens: A wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster) allows for more light and a broader view of the sky.
- Tripod: A sturdy tripod is crucial for long exposure shots to prevent camera shake.
- Remote Shutter Release: Helps avoid camera movement when taking long exposure shots.
Settings:
- ISO: Start with ISO 800 to 3200. Higher ISO settings can capture more light but may introduce noise.
- Aperture: Use the widest aperture (lowest f-number) to allow maximum light into the camera.
- Shutter Speed: Experiment with shutter speeds between 5 to 30 seconds. Longer exposures can create beautiful trails, but too long can result in overexposure.
Composition:
- Foreground Elements: Include trees, mountains, or buildings to add depth and context to your photos.
- Rule of Thirds: Position the horizon line in the lower third of the frame to create a balanced composition.
- Focus: Manually focus on a distant light or use the infinity setting to ensure sharp images of the auroras.

Conclusion

The Northern Lights are a mesmerizing natural phenomenon that can be experienced in various locations, particularly in the Arctic regions during the winter months. By understanding the science behind the auroras, knowing the best times and places to view them, and employing effective photography techniques, you can enhance your experience and capture stunning images of this celestial display. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply seeking a breathtaking experience, witnessing the Northern Lights is a memory that will last a lifetime.

Iceland’s winter months, from September to April, offer the best chances to see the Northern Lights. During this time, the nights are longer and the skies are darker, providing optimal viewing conditions. The best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland are away from city lights and light pollution, such as the countryside and national parks. Some popular viewing spots include Thingvellir National Park, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and Vatnajökull National Park.

One of the unique things about Iceland’s Northern Lights is that they can often be seen dancing over glaciers and volcanoes, providing a truly spectacular and unforgettable experience. Many tour operators offer Northern Lights tours, which take visitors to the best viewing spots and provide expert guides to help understand the science behind the phenomenon.

It’s also worth noting that Northern Lights viewing is a weather dependent activity, clear and cloudless nights are needed for optimal viewing. However, even if the lights aren’t visible, Iceland’s winter landscapes are still an incredible sight, with the snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and steaming hot springs.

In conclusion, Iceland is a fantastic destination for those looking to see the Northern Lights. With clear, dark skies and spectacular natural landscapes, it offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Just keep in mind that Northern Lights viewing is a weather dependent activity, but even if the lights are not visible, Iceland’s winter landscapes are still worth the trip.