best time to see northern lights in alaska

Natives have believed the lights have a mystical force or even marked the appearance of spirits who have passed on. The Borealis is composed of solar particles shooting into the magnetic field of the earth and appear more than 60 miles above the earth's surface. Specifically, it occurs within the Northern Lights zone (at latitudes 65 to 72 degrees). The aurora actually occurs all year long, but the sky needs to be clear and dark to see it. And there are only a few places on the globe where it can be viewed. Yes, you can see the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, from Anchorage - but not in the summer.

But if you thought winter in Alaska is not a good time for a visit then you were wrong. Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Alaska Alaskas northern lights season is between late August and late April, peaking in March, though its a season defined more by its long, dark nights. What is Aurora Borealis?Īurora Borealis (also known as the Northern Lights) are magical bands of neon green light that spontaneously burst and dance in the sky. The sunlight goes on decreasing down to almost nil by December, with the coldest, most darkest days seen around winter solstice (Christmas). But if you are thinking of cruising to Alaska in this lifetime, I am practically begging you to learn just a little bit about the Borealis, because you may want to plan any entire life-changing Norwegian Cruise Line vacation around it. I must admit – until I became interested in global cruising, I don’t think I’d ever heard of this natural wonder with the weirdest of names. March is considered the best time to observe the northern lights since clear skies are more common in Alaska during spring. Aurora Borealis is the kind of scientific phenomenon that most people seem to either know everything about or nothing at all. In fact, if you want to enjoy the Northern Lights, this can be the best time to visit Alaska, because you’ll catch them in the night, but still be able to enjoy the daylight hours too.

Best time to see northern lights in alaska