But when exactly is the best time to see them? In this guide, we’ll look at the most favorable months, hours, and conditions for aurora hunting in 2025, along with the science behind this phenomenon.
What causes the Northern Lights?
The Aurora Borealis occurs when charged particles from the Sun collide with Earth’s atmosphere. Guided by the planet’s magnetic field, these solar particles interact with gases such as oxygen and nitrogen, creating shimmering colors across the night sky.
The shades of green, pink, red, and violet depend on altitude and the gases involved.
How often do they appear?
Auroras can happen year-round, but visibility depends on darkness, solar activity, and clear skies. While they don’t occur every single night, statistics from the Finnish Meteorological Institute show that in the far north of Lapland (Kilpisjärvi, Utsjoki), the Northern Lights can be seen on three nights out of four during winter.
How long do aurora shows last?
Displays can be fleeting bursts of a few minutes or extended dances lasting hours. On active nights, several waves may appear one after another, and during strong geomagnetic storms, the sky can remain alive with lights all night long.
What time of night is best?
The prime viewing hours are typically between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM, when the sky is darkest and auroral activity strongest. For the best chances, follow local aurora forecasts and space weather updates.
Which months are best?
Aurora season in Lapland stretches for about seven months – from September through March, when nights are long and skies dark. Activity often peaks in autumn and spring, when geomagnetic conditions are strongest.
Where are they most common?
The auroral zone circles Earth’s polar regions, making destinations like Finland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Canada, and Alaska prime spots. These countries offer multiple viewing opportunities every week during winter.
Best time in Finland
In Finnish Lapland, the season runs from September to March, with the clearest chances after 10:00 PM. In the northernmost areas, travelers can expect Northern Lights on most winter nights – as often as three out of four.
Can you see them in summer?
No – during the Midnight Sun period, the sky never gets dark enough. From May to early August, even if auroras occur, the bright Arctic nights conceal them from view.
Summary
The Northern Lights remain one of nature’s most magical spectacles. Your best opportunity to see them will be from September to March, around midnight, in regions within the auroral zone.
Finnish Lapland stands out as one of the top global destinations: long, dark nights, minimal light pollution, and a location directly under the aurora belt make it ideal for an unforgettable Northern Lights holiday.
Kommentar schreiben