Northern Lights Travel Guide: For NocTourists chasing the Midnight Sun

The allure of the Arctic, with stark landscapes and ethereal sightings of the Aurora Borealis, often conjures images of crisp winter magical nights. We envision bundling up against the biting cold, steaming mugs clutched in gloves and hats, our breath misting in the inky black sky as ribbons of emerald and violet dance above. But what if I told you there's another, perhaps even more enchanting, way to chase the Northern Lights? 

What is noctotourism?

Enter the realm of summer noctourism, a journey into the land of the midnight sun, where the familiar rules of day and night blur, and the possibility of witnessing the aurora under a twilight sky becomes a captivating reality.

What creates the magic of the Northern Lights?

For the uninitiated, the concept of seeing the Northern Lights in summer might seem paradoxical. After all, isn't darkness a prerequisite for this celestial spectacle? While it's true that peak aurora viewing typically occurs during the long, dark winter months, the summer offers a unique and often overlooked window of opportunity, particularly in the higher latitudes. This is where the magic of the midnight sun intertwines with the science of solar activity.

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a breathtaking phenomenon caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere. These particles are funneled towards the polar regions, where they collide with atmospheric gases like oxygen and nitrogen, releasing energy in the form of light. The intensity and frequency of these solar ejections fluctuate, following roughly an 11-year solar cycle. While the darkest nights provide the most dramatic backdrop, significant solar activity can still produce auroras visible even against a twilight sky.

Summer aurora - a sight to behold

The key to summer aurora viewing lies in understanding the concept of "dark enough." While the sun might not fully set in regions above the Arctic Circle during the peak of summer, there are periods of deep twilight, particularly in the late evening and early morning hours. As the sun dips below the horizon but remains relatively close, the sky doesn't reach complete darkness. However, during periods of strong solar activity, the vibrant hues of the aurora can still pierce through this twilight veil, creating an otherworldly spectacle against the soft glow of the lingering sunset or the approaching sunrise.

Extended Daylight Hours 

This is where the burgeoning trend of summer noctourism comes into play. It's about embracing the extended daylight hours, adjusting your internal clock, and venturing out during the quiet twilight periods when the potential for an aurora display is highest. It's a different kind of adventure, one that combines the stunning landscapes of the Arctic summer – think vibrant wildflowers, dramatic coastlines, and the unique light of the midnight sun – with the thrilling possibility of witnessing the elusive Northern Lights.

So, how does one embark on this summer aurora quest? The first crucial step is choosing the right location. Regions within or just below the Arctic Circle, such as Iceland, Northern Norway, Sweden and Finnish Lapland, Greenland, and parts of Alaska and Canada, offer the best chances. These areas experience the midnight sun to varying degrees, with the period of continuous daylight shortening as you move south. Look for locations that offer clear, unobstructed views of the northern horizon, away from significant light pollution. Coastal areas or elevated vantage points can be particularly rewarding.

How do I time it right?

Next, timing is paramount. While the absolute peak of summer (around the June solstice) might offer continuous daylight in the highest latitudes, the shoulder seasons of late August and early September, and again in late March and early April, often present the most favourable conditions for summer aurora viewing. During these periods, the nights are growing longer (or shorter), offering more hours of twilight or true darkness, while the weather can still be relatively mild and the landscapes are often at their most vibrant.

Stay Alert to catch solar activity

However, even during the heart of summer, persistent effort and a bit of luck can pay off. Keep a close eye on aurora forecasts, which predict the likelihood and intensity of solar activity reaching Earth. Numerous websites and apps provide real-time data and alerts. Be prepared to stay up late or wake up in the early hours of the morning, as these twilight periods are your prime viewing windows.

Beyond the practicalities of location and timing, embracing the spirit of noctourism involves adapting to a different rhythm. Days might be spent exploring the stunning summer landscapes – hiking through verdant valleys, kayaking along fjord-carved coastlines, or simply soaking in the surreal light of the midnight sun. Evenings become the time for anticipation, for monitoring aurora forecasts and preparing for a potential sighting.

Patiences becomes your companion!

Imagine this: It's late August in Northern Norway. You've spent the day hiking amidst rolling green hills dotted with wildflowers, the midnight sun casting long, golden shadows. As the evening progresses, the sun finally dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink, orange, and a soft, lingering blue. You find a secluded spot overlooking a tranquil fjord, the air still and crisp. You check your aurora app – a moderate solar storm is predicted. Patience becomes your companion as you scan the northern sky. Then, slowly, subtly, a faint arc of pale green begins to shimmer on the horizon. It grows in intensity, morphing into dancing ribbons of light, their ethereal glow reflecting in the still waters below. The experience is both serene and exhilarating, a magical encounter under the soft embrace of the twilight.

The beauty of summer aurora chasing extends beyond the potential for witnessing the lights themselves. The Arctic summer is a unique and captivating time. The landscapes are alive with colour and activity. Wildlife is abundant. The extended daylight hours offer unparalleled opportunities for exploration and adventure. Even if the aurora remains elusive, the journey itself is a reward. You'll experience the surreal beauty of the midnight sun, the vibrant energy of the Arctic in bloom, and the quiet magic of the long twilight hours.

What do I need to keep warm?

Furthermore, summer noctourism often offers a more accessible and comfortable experience compared to winter aurora hunting. While warm layers are still essential, you won't be battling sub-zero temperatures. Hiking and outdoor activities are more enjoyable, and travel conditions are generally less challenging. This makes it an appealing option for those who might be hesitant about braving the harsh Arctic winter.

Of course, summer aurora viewing presents its own set of challenges. The brighter skies mean that only stronger auroras will be visible. Light pollution from nearby towns or settlements can further diminish the chances. Patience and persistence are key, and there's always the possibility of the aurora not making an appearance. However, the unique backdrop of the summer landscape and the novelty of witnessing the lights under a twilight sky make the effort worthwhile.

To enhance your summer aurora chasing experience, consider the following tips:

• Invest in a good camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls will allow you to capture the subtle colours and movements of the aurora. A wide-angle lens and a sturdy tripod are also essential.
• Find the best eSIM package: You never know when you will have to capture that moment to share on Instagram or even put out on what’s app.  Check out mobimatter.com for the best nordic and balkan packages to travel smart and connected at the same time.
• Learn basic astrophotography techniques: Understanding how to adjust your camera settings for low-light conditions will significantly improve your chances of capturing stunning images.
• Download aurora forecasting apps: These apps provide real-time data on solar activity, KP index (a measure of geomagnetic activity), and cloud cover.
• Dress in layers: Even in summer, evenings in the Arctic can be cool. Layers will allow you to adjust to changing temperatures.
• Bring insect repellent: Summer in the Arctic can mean mosquitoes and other biting insects which is so surprising for this part of the world.
• Be patient and persistent: Aurora viewing is never guaranteed. Be prepared to spend time outdoors and don't be discouraged if you don't see the lights on your first attempt.
• Respect the environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles and be mindful of the delicate Arctic ecosystem.

Summer noctourism is more than just a quest to see the Northern Lights; it's an immersion into a unique and enchanting world. It's about embracing the extended daylight, exploring breathtaking landscapes under the midnight sun, and experiencing the quiet anticipation of the twilight hours. While the winter aurora holds its own undeniable magic, the summer aurora offers a different kind of wonder – a subtle, ethereal dance of light against a backdrop of vibrant life and lingering twilight. So, the next time you dream of chasing the Northern Lights, consider venturing north during the summer months. You might just discover a whole new appreciation for the Arctic's captivating beauty and the magic of the aurora under the midnight sun.