The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are one of nature’s most incredible spectacles. These dancing lights illuminate the night sky over Iceland every winter, drawing visitors from around the world. Whether you call them the Northern Lights or the aurora, this natural phenomenon creates a breathtaking show that has mesmerized people for centuries.
You can witness this magical light show in Iceland throughout the long winter months. People from all corners of the globe come to see the aurora in action, hoping to catch a glimpse of its vivid green, purple, and sometimes red hues swirling across the dark sky. But what exactly causes this beautiful display? Let’s dive into their origins and why Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see them.
WHAT IS THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?
The Northern Lights occur when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field. The sun constantly emits streams of particles known as solar flairs. When this solar wind reaches Earth, it collides with the planet’s magnetic field, funneling these particles toward the polar regions.
Once these charged particles enter Earth’s atmosphere, they interact with gases like oxygen and nitrogen, releasing energy in the form of light. The colors of the Lights depend on the speed of those particles, the type of gases involved in the process, and the altitude at which the reactions occur.
For example, oxygen at higher altitudes typically produces green lights, while nitrogen can create purples and reds.
WHY IS ICELAND THE BEST PLACE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?
Iceland stands out as one of the best places to see the Northern Lights for several compelling reasons. First, the country offers frequent opportunities to witness this stunning phenomenon. Due to its location near the Arctic Circle, Iceland has a higher chance of experiencing this show during the long winter nights.
Another advantage of visiting Iceland is the relatively mild winter temperatures compared to other Northern Lights destinations. While it can still be chilly, the weather is often more manageable, making the experience more comfortable. The beginning and end of the so-called season are especially user-friendly due to the much warmer nights.
Additionally, Iceland’s low levels of light pollution make it an ideal location for viewing the Northern Lights. The country’s sparse population and limited city lights mean you can easily find darker, clearer spots, enhancing your chances of a spectacular sighting. The island’s location in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean and the lack of neighboring countries create light pollution, making it perfect for astrophotography.
WHAT DO NORTHERN LIGHTS ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?
In person, the colors of the Northern Lights can look quite different from the vivid hues captured in photographs. A camera lens is much more sensitive to light than the human eye, which is why photos often show bright greens, pinks, and purples. In reality, you might see softer shades or even grayish tones, depending on the solar activity at the time.
The darkness required to view the Northern Lights also affects our eyes’ ability to detect color, making the lights appear more muted and less intense compared to what a camera can capture. Often, the true brilliance of the aurora is revealed only in photographs.
That said, it’s still possible to witness vibrant colors with the naked eye, especially during periods of higher activity.
HOW DO THE NORTHERN LIGHTS RELATE TO ICELANDIC FOLKLORE?
Long before the science behind this was understood, Icelanders had unique and often mystical beliefs about these captivating lights.
One ancient Icelandic myth suggested that the Northern Lights were linked to childbirth. According to folklore, women in labor were advised to avoid looking at the Aurora, as it was believed that doing so could result in their child being born cross-eyed.
Beyond this myth, the Northern Lights were often seen as mystical and heralded fortune tellers. In the past, Icelandic people regarded the colors as a sign of positive or negative news or events on the horizon, adding a layer of magic and wonder to this already mesmerizing natural display.
DOES IT NEED TO BE COLD TO SEE ICELAND’S NORTHERN LIGHTS?
There is a common misconception that you need extremely cold weather to witness the Northern Lights. Fortunately, the visibility is not dependent on temperature.
Dark, clear skies are essential. If you don’t like cold weather, consider planning your visit to Iceland in September or April. During these months, temperatures can be milder, yet conditions can still be ideal for spotting the Aurora.
As long as the sky is clear and free from clouds, you’ll have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights regardless of the temperature. So, you can enjoy this breathtaking show without braving the deepest winter cold.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND?
Determining the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland involves considering both the timing of your observation and the seasonal conditions.
The best time to witness it is between September and April, in the darker months. This period, known as the Northern Lights season, offers longer nights and darker skies, creating ideal conditions for viewing the aurora.
In contrast, during the summer months of May through July, Iceland experiences nearly continuous daylight due to the midnight sun. This extended daylight significantly diminishes the visibility of the Northern Lights, making it impossible to see them.
The optimal viewing hours for the Northern Lights are generally between 9 PM and 2 AM when the skies are at their darkest. During these hours, you’ll have the best chance of seeing the aurora, as the absence of light pollution and the night sky’s darkness enhance visibility. However, sightings have been reported as early as 4 PM and as late as 5 AM. The key factor is darkness, so aim for the nights when the sky is dark and clear.
Pro Tip: To maximize your chances, avoid planning your hunt during a full moon, as its brightness can reduce the visibility of the Northern Lights. Aim for nights when the sky is dark and clear with minimal moonlight.
IS IT GUARANTEED TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS WHEN I VISIT ICELAND?
Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is never a certainty and is quite unpredictable. Even the best forecasts, which usually extend only about 4-5 days, can’t guarantee a sighting. Most travelers plan their Iceland trips months in advance, which complicates the odds of aligning the perfect conditions for viewing the lights.
Due to the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights, I choose not to include it in my scheduled tours. I do not feel that it is fair to promise an experience that might not happen, as it could lead to disappointment. I want you to leave Iceland with luggage of good memories from Iceland.
However, if you happen to time the trip right with the perfect solar activity matched with the right weather conditions, I will be happy to take you on such a hunt!
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR IN ICELAND?
When selecting a Northern Lights tour in Iceland, the group size can make all the difference in your experience. I highly recommend choosing a tour with a small group, no more than eight people.
Small group tours offer a more personalized experience and adjust the tour based on real-time conditions without dealing with large crowds.
Additionally, many smaller companies are honest enough to cancel the tour if there is no chance of seeing the lights that night. This saves you from wasting time or money.
HOW TO PREDICTING NORTHERN LIGHTS
Planning your Northern Lights adventure can be difficult, but you can significantly increase your chances with the right tools and preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to predict the best time and place to see the Northern Lights in Iceland.
CHECK THE AURORA FORECAST
Start by checking the aurora forecast for geomagnetic activity. Sites like Space Weather (NOAA) and the Icelandic Meteorological Office provide information on solar activity and prediction of cloud coverage each night.
These websites display the “Kp index,” which measures geomagnetic activity. The scale ranges from 0 to 9, with a Kp index of 5 or higher indicating auroral solid activity. The higher the Kp index, the further south the lights will be visible. So, even a night with a low Kp index in Iceland might produce beautiful lights.
TRACK LOCAL WEATHER CONDITIONS
Clear skies are crucial for viewing the Northern Lights, as clouds can easily obscure the aurora. To plan for optimal conditions, it’s essential to check local weather forecast websites like Vedur.is. This platform provides short-term weather updates, allowing you to assess the best times and places for hunting.
When using these sites, focus on the cloud coverage maps. It is crucial to consider the wind and temperature forecasts. This will help you dress appropriately and choose a location with calm weather, improving your overall experience.
USE AURORA APPS FOR REAL-TIME ALERTS
For real-time updates and alerts on auroral activity, download apps like Hello Aurora or Aurora Alerts. These apps will notify you when solar activity and weather conditions are perfect for Northern Lights sightings.
These apps track your location and send you notifications when Aurora activity is high in your area. You can also set custom alerts based on the Kp index. Some of them offer real-time user photo notifications.
CHOOSE THE BEST LOCATION
Choosing the right location is crucial for maximizing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Iceland has many excellent spots with minimal light pollution, offering optimal viewing conditions for the aurora.
While it is possible to see the Northern Lights from Reykjavik, the bright city lights often interfere with the display. To improve your chances, travel 30 to 60 minutes outside the city to find darker, clearer skies. Look for areas with little to no cloud cover, as heavy clouds will prevent you from seeing the Northern Lights.
If traveling to the countryside isn’t an option, select a location that offers unobstructed views of the horizon and minimal light pollution. For example, position yourself with your back to the city lights and face toward the ocean’s darkness. A perfect spot for this is the Grotta Lighthouse, which provides excellent views away from the city lights.
BE PATIENT AND FLEXIBLE
Seeing the Northern Lights requires patience and flexibility. Even with the best predictions, nature is unpredictable, and you might not witness the aurora immediately. To increase your chances, plan multiple nights dedicated to aurora hunting.
Once you’re in the right location with clear skies, give yourself a few hours to wait. The Northern Lights can appear and disappear quickly, so stay alert for sudden changes in the sky.
If weather or solar conditions shift unexpectedly, be prepared to adjust your plans. Moving to a new location or adapting your schedule will increase your chances of a successful sighting.
By staying flexible and using the right tools, you’ll be well-equipped to plan for an unforgettable Northern Lights experience in Iceland.
TIPS FOR PREPARING TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Proper preparation can enhance your Northern Lights experience.
WHAT TO BRING
Ensure you have essential equipment for your Northern Lights adventure, such as a tripod for stable photography, a camera with manual settings, and warm clothing. Dressing in layers is key to staying comfortable during the cold Icelandic nights.
Warm, insulated, and waterproof clothing is crucial. Make sure to include thermal socks, gloves, and a hat to protect against the chill.
An ideal choice for photography is a mirrorless camera with manual settings. To capture the best aurora shots, use a wide-angle lens and a sturdy tripod to keep your camera steady. However, if you have just a smartphone, it needs to be enough.
Additionally, crampons should be brought to ensure stable footing on icy or slippery surfaces, which are common in Iceland during the winter months.
A headlamp or flashlight is also crucial for navigating in the dark while keeping your hands free and maintaining your night vision, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience during your adventure.
WHAT TO WEAR FOR NORTHERN LIGHTS HUNT
Dress in multiple layers to stay warm during your Northern Lights adventure. Start with moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from your body, add insulating layers for warmth, and top it all off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against the elements.
Thermal socks are essential for keeping your feet warm and insulated. Waterproof gloves will protect your hands from the icy wind. Don’t forget a warm hat that covers your ears to shield them from the chill and keep your head warm.
Thermos of hot beverages will be a game changer!
HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?
Photographing the Northern Lights can be an exciting yet challenging experience. Whether you’re using a mirrorless camera or your smartphone, capturing this stunning phenomenon requires specific techniques. Below, you’ll find tips for both types of devices to help you get the best possible shots.
MIRRORLESS CAMERAS
A mirrorless camera with manual settings is ideal for photographing the Northern Lights. Follow these steps to ensure you get the perfect shot:
USE A WIDE-ANGLE LENS
A wide-angle lens (14-24mm) works best for capturing the vast expanse of the night sky and the aurora. This allows you to fit more of the Northern Lights into your frame and create more dynamic compositions.
SET TO MANUAL MODE
Manual mode is essential for controlling exposure, ISO, and aperture in low-light conditions. Automatic settings won’t give you the flexibility needed for aurora photography.
ADJUST THE CAMERA SETTINGS
Start with an ISO of 1600-3200 to capture enough light, use the widest aperture possible (f/2.8 or lower) to let in maximum light, and set a long exposure time between 15-30 seconds. Experiment with different shutter speeds for the best result based on the aurora’s brightness and movement.
USE A TRIPOD
Use a sturdy tripod and set a 1-2 second shooter delay to avoid blurry images caused by camera shake during long exposures. Also, make sure your camera is stable and secure.
FOCUS MANUALLY
Set your lens to manual focus and adjust it to infinity. Use live view to zoom in on a star or distant light and fine-tune the focus for sharper results. I like to use a bright start as a point of focus.
TAKE TEST SHOTS
Each hunt might be different, so test your settings by taking a few shots. Adjust your ISO, aperture, or shutter speed as needed to capture the aurora in its full glory.
Pro Tip: Make sure to bring extra batteries for your camera. Cold temperatures can significantly reduce battery life, especially when shooting long exposures or timelapses. Keep the spare batteries warm in your pockets and swap them out as needed to avoid missing any shots.
If you like to shoot time lapses, a power bank would be the perfect solution for cold winter nights!
SMARTPHONES
Photographing the Northern Lights with a smartphone can be more challenging, but with the right settings and apps, it’s still possible to capture beautiful images.
USE A TRIPOD OR STABILIZER
Just like with a mirrorless camera, keeping your phone steady is key. You can shoot the handheld but use a tripod or a stabilizer to avoid blurry photos due to hand movement during long exposures.
LONG EXPOSURE
Some smartphones don’t have built-in manual controls, so you must use a long exposure or Night Mode feature.
TAKE MULTIPLE SHOTS
Smartphones tend to have limited capabilities in low-light settings, so take multiple shots and experiment with different settings to get the best results.
Pro Tip: If you need any last-minute photography gear while in Iceland, I highly recommend stopping by Reykjavik Foto. It’s my go-to photography shop, offering a great selection of high-quality equipment and accessories. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to help, making it a reliable spot to ensure you’re fully prepared to capture the Northern Lights.
CONCLUSION
Experiencing the Northern Lights in Iceland is nothing short of magical. With a deeper understanding of the science behind this phenomenon and the right gear in hand, you’re well-prepared to make the most of your aurora hunt.
Remember, patience and flexibility are essential. Nature can be unpredictable, so plan your hunt for multiple nights and be ready to adapt based on the latest weather and aurora forecasts.
Enjoy the adventure and the moments under the dazzling night sky!
