People have been tracking these solar cycles since the 1700s. In 2020, experts predicted that the current cycle, number 25, would be pretty calm. They thought the Sun would reach its peak activity around July 2025.
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a dazzling light display caused by collisions between charged particles from the sun and Earth's atmosphere.
Solar winds carry these particles, which are then trapped by Earth's magnetic field and guided towards the poles. As they interact with gases in the atmosphere, they release energy in the form of light, creating the mesmerizing colors we see.
2024 has already been a great year for spotting the Northern Lights, and the second half of the year promises to be just as good.
The Sun goes through a roughly eleven-year cycle of activity. Scientists measure this by counting sunspots on the Sun's surface. When there are few sunspots, the Sun is in a quiet phase called solar minimum. However, during solar maximum, the Sun is peppered with sunspots and is much more active. These bursts of energy can cause solar storms, which can disrupt life on Earth, but also generate surges in Northern Lights activity.
People have been tracking these solar cycles since the 1700s. In 2020, experts predicted that the current cycle, number 25, would be pretty calm. They thought the Sun would reach its peak activity around July 2025.
However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (an American scientific agency that focuses on the conditions of the oceans, atmosphere, and outer space), which uses existing sunspot data to predict the peak of the solar cycle, recently estimated a solar maximum between July 2024 to January 2025.
Therefore, now the midnight sun has gone, and we have several hours of darkness again, we're entering a perfect period for some major Northern Lights action. Remember, to have the best chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis, you must choose a spot with as little light pollution as possible. Just don't expect too much excitement from your Swedish friends and neighbours - many of them are quite used to seeing the lights!
Several apps can help you increase your chances of spotting the Northern Lights. Here are some of the most popular options. Some are Apple only, others Android:
- My Aurora Forecast & Alerts
– This app provides real-time aurora forecasts, notifications when aurora activity is high, and detailed information on the best viewing times and locations. It also includes maps and weather forecasts. - Aurora Now Northern Lights
– This app offers customizable alerts for Northern Lights activity, along with a short-term forecast of up to 30 minutes and a long-term forecast for the coming days. It also provides information on the KP index, which measures geomagnetic activity. - Northern Eye Aurora Forecast
– This app provides aurora borealis forecasts, solar wind data, and the KP index. It also has an integrated map to help find clear skies for viewing and allows users to set alerts for when auroras are likely to be visible. - Aurora Forecast
– This app is simple and straightforward, offering a quick look at the KP index, aurora probability in your location, and aurora visibility maps. It also includes notifications for increased auroral activity.
Areas around Skellefteå good for spotting the Aurora:
- Kåge harbor is conveniently located about 10 kilometers north of Skellefteå. Its easy accessibility is perfect for visitors who prefer to stay close to their car.
- Bjuröklubb, 55kms south from the city center, offers excellent conditions for viewing the Northern Lights due to its minimal light pollution. The lighthouse provides the easiest access and the best vantage point.
- Boviken's expansive beach, a few kms north of Skellefteå, is another viewing spot ideal for those who want to stay close to their car.
- It's a short walk to the old fire tower at the top of Vitberget, 5kms from Kalvträsk (70 kms east of Skellefteå) but once there it gives an incredible view of the surroundings if the aurora is giving a show.
- Svansele Wilderness Centre, 61kms north west of Skellefteå, with its almost total lack of light pollution provides perfect conditions for seeing the aurora.
- Kågnäsudden, 22 kms east of Skellefteå on the coast, and a few kms past Ursviken, is an almost perfect spot when the aurora are around. From Ursviken drive north past the Kartway go-kart track and then head east past Sillskatan. Park in the forest and walk a kilometer to the coast.
Locations further away from Skellefteå, some with accommodation, that are ideal for Northern Lights viewing:
1. Granö Beckasin
- Location: Granö
- Description: Granö Beckasin is a unique eco-resort located in the heart of Västerbotten, surrounded by pristine nature. The resort offers accommodations in bird's nest-inspired treehouses, as well as traditional log cabins. The treehouses provide an elevated view, perfect for spotting the northern lights. The area around Granö is dark and quiet, offering excellent conditions for aurora viewing.
- Activities: In addition to Northern Lights watching, you can enjoy dog sledding, snowshoeing, and guided nature tours.
2. Klimpfjäll
- Location: Near the Norwegian border, in the southwestern part of Västerbotten
- Description: Klimpfjäll is a small village in the mountains, known for its stunning natural beauty and excellent aurora viewing opportunities. The area is remote, with minimal light pollution, making it one of the best places in Västerbotten to see the northern lights.
- Accommodations: The area has cozy cabins and guesthouses, such as Klimpfjällsgården, which offers comfortable lodging with easy access to outdoor activities and aurora viewing.
3. Hemavan
- Location: Southern part of Västerbotten, near the Norwegian border
- Description: Hemavan is a popular ski resort in Västerbotten, but it’s also a great place for Northern Lights viewing. The town is surrounded by mountains and wilderness, providing clear, dark skies.
- Accommodations: Hemavan Tärnaby offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, cabins, and hostels. Many of these are located in areas with minimal light pollution, ideal for aurora viewing.
4. Vindeln
- Location: Centrally located in Västerbotten, near Umeå
- Description: Vindeln is a smaller town that offers a more relaxed atmosphere with good chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The surrounding countryside is dark and offers a great setting for aurora watching.
- Accommodations: Local bed and breakfasts and small hotels, such as Hotell Forsen, provide cozy lodging options close to nature.
Remember, to have the best chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis, you must choose a spot with as little light pollution as possible.
Photographing the Northern Lights on a DSLR camera
Photographing the Northern Lights requires careful preparation and experimentation.
Essential gear includes a DSLR camera with a wide-angle lens, a sturdy tripod, and a remote shutter release.
To capture the ethereal glow, set your camera to manual mode. A wide aperture (low f-number) allows more light in. Experiment with ISO, starting around 800 and adjusting based on light conditions. Shutter speed depends on the aurora's activity; a longer exposure captures more light but can create star trails.
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a dazzling light display caused by collisions between charged particles from the sun and Earth's atmosphere.
Focus manually on infinity. Use a headlamp with a red light to preserve your night vision. Experiment with different compositions, including foreground elements like trees or landscapes. Remember, the Northern Lights are unpredictable, so patience and flexibility are key.
Post-processing can enhance your images. Use software to adjust exposure, contrast, and color balance. Consider using noise reduction tools to minimize graininess.
Photographing the Northern Lights on a smartphone
Capturing the Northern Lights with an iPhone is challenging but possible. Enable Night mode for optimal low-light performance. Find a dark location, steady your phone (or use a tripod, but not really necessary), and increase exposure time within night mode settings. Focus manually on infinity.
Remember, the iPhone camera has limitations, so don't expect professional-quality results, but here's an example of my Northern Lights iPhone photography with an iPhone 11 - it's not that bad.
There is a really helpful local Facebook group you could also join. It's in Swedish, but I've been assured they'll answer questions in English.
Happy hunting!
An iPhone 11 took this in February this year.