The best northern lights season in a decade

With solar activity peaking in its 11-year cycle, this is the perfect season to experience the northern lights at their most vibrant.

This upcoming season marks one of the best opportunities in over a decade to witness the Northern Lights. Unlike quieter years, the increased solar activity during the so called "solar maximum" means you’re more likely to experience brighter and more dynamic auroras dancing across the sky.

A once-in-a-decade opportunity

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the peak is expected between July 2024 and January 2025, making the upcoming winter season your best chance to see the special phenomena.

What is the "solar maximum"?

Solar maximum refers to the peak of the Sun's 11-year activity cycle. During this time, sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections increase, sending charged particles toward Earth.

When these particles collide with Earth’s atmosphere, they create the stunning display of the Northern Lights.

What are the best ways to see the northern lights?

To maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, head to the heart of the auroral zone in Norway. Places like Tromsø and Kirkenes offer excellent infrastructure and minimal light pollution, which provide a great view of the auroras.

To really put yourself in the best position to see the atmospheric phenomenon, book one of the specialized Northern Lights tours from Fjord Travel Norway, like Northern Lights Cruise trip to Kirkenes or Northern Lights Cruise trip to Tromsø.

Both trips include a cruise segment, where being on a boat allows you to chase clear skies and witness breathtaking auroras free from light pollution.

These tours also feature curated activities designed to maximize your chances of experiencing the Northern Lights in all their glory.

Northern lights chasing with dog sled in Kirkenes — Photo by NTC

The exterior of the Snowhotel in Kirkenes — Photo by NTC

What exactly are the northern lights?

The Northern Lights are created when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with Earth's atmosphere. These particles travel along Earth's magnetic field and, upon impact, cause the air to glow like a fluorescent light.

The colors we see depend on the gases in the atmosphere, with greens coming from oxygen and reds from a mix of oxygen and nitrogen. The sun's activity determines when these particles are released and whether they will produce the auroras we can see from Earth.