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Can You See the Northern Lights from an Airplane
Airplane Advantage in Seeing Northern Lights
Yes, it is possible to see the Northern Lights from an airplane. In fact, an airplane can provide a unique advantage for aurora viewing. Due to their cruising altitude, commercial flights usually fly above the clouds, which increases the chance of spotting the dazzling natural light show in clear skies. Also, as airplanes can cover vast distances, passengers may have an extended opportunity to enjoy the phenomenon from above, compared to those viewing it from the ground.
When flying, a window seat on the side facing north is typically the best spot to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Additionally, having a dark cabin and minimizing interior lighting can enhance passengers’ viewing experience.
Airlines That Fly Over Aurora Borealis
Airlines that frequently fly over or near the regions where the Northern Lights can be seen include Icelandair, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Norwegian Air, and Air Canada. These airlines often operate routes over places like:
- Norway
- Sweden
- Alaska
- Iceland
Icelandair, for example, is particularly known for offering passengers the chance to view the aurora borealis from their aircraft. The airline’s pilots sometimes make announcements to inform passengers about the Northern Lights, allowing them to prepare before the show begins.
Seeing the Northern Lights from an airplane undoubtedly offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers. It’s an item that can easily be added to one’s travel bucket list and certainly contributes to making a flight more memorable.
Factors Impacting Visibility of Northern Lights from an Airplane
Importance of Weather Conditions and Cloud Cover
Weather conditions play a significant role in determining the visibility of the Northern Lights from an airplane. For the best viewing experience, clear skies are essential. Aircraft at cruising altitude usually fly above the clouds, which increases the chances of seeing the Aurora during the flight. However, unfavorable weather conditions, such as thick cloud cover, can dramatically reduce the chances of witnessing this spectacular phenomenon.
The Role of Seasons in Visibility
The visibility of the Northern Lights from an airplane often depends on the time of the year. Generally, the winter months provide the best opportunity for viewing the Aurora from the sky, as the nights are longest during this season. Fall also offers a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights, as the skies are often darker and clearer than in summer.
In the summer months, the increased daylight hours and light pollution make it more challenging to see the Northern Lights, even from the higher vantage point of an airplane. However, flights passing over or near destinations such as Greenland, Reykjavik, and northern Canada may still offer a glimpse of the mesmerizing light show.
To summarize, the visibility of the Northern Lights from an airplane depends on factors like:
- Weather conditions and cloud cover
- Time of the year
- Geographical location
By considering these factors and selecting an appropriate flight route during the winter or fall months, passengers may have the opportunity to enjoy this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon from the skies.
Best Locations for Viewing Northern Lights from the Sky
Popular Destinations for Aircraft Aurora Borealis Viewing
Aircraft aurora borealis viewing offers a unique experience to those looking to witness the beauty of the northern lights from a different perspective. It’s not only breathtaking but also allows people to escape light pollution and have an unobstructed view. Some of the best locations for this kind of experience are:
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Iceland: Reputed for its breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has become an increasingly popular destination for aurora hunters. Several airlines offer special flights during the winter months dedicated to observing the northern lights from the sky, departing from cities such as Reykjavik.
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Alaska: Fairbanks in Alaska is considered one of the top destinations to view auroras. Some local airlines and tour operators offer flight options that allow passengers to witness the mesmerizing lights over the Arctic Circle.
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Norway: The city of Tromsø, located in northern Norway, is known as the gateway to the Arctic. Thanks to its ideal location within the auroral oval, flight tours are offered to experience the northern lights from the sky on a clear night.
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Sweden: Northern regions like Lapland in Sweden also fall within the auroral oval, making them great locations for northern lights viewings. Some local airlines organize special flights from cities such as Stockholm to enjoy the dazzling show from above.
While these destinations offer excellent opportunities for aircraft aurora borealis viewing, it’s always important to keep in mind that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, and their visibility is subject to various factors, including solar activity and weather conditions. However, if you have a chance to see the northern lights from an airplane, it’s undoubtedly an experience of a lifetime!
The Physics Behind the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural light display in the Earth’s sky. This phenomenon is typically observed in the polar regions and is caused by the interaction between charged particles from the Sun and the Earth’s magnetic field.
Colors of the Aurora Borealis
The colors of the Northern Lights are a result of energized particles from the solar wind colliding with the Earth’s atmosphere. These particles are usually electrons and protons that have been ejected from the Sun during solar flares or other solar activities. The Earth’s magnetic field directs these charged particles towards the poles, where they interact with the atmosphere and create the auroras.
The characteristic colors of the Aurora Borealis largely depend on the type of gas in the Earth’s atmosphere and the altitude at which the aurora occurs. Some common colors seen in the auroras include:
- Green: This is the most common color of the aurora, and it is produced by the interaction between charged particles and oxygen molecules at altitudes of about 100-200 kilometers (62-124 miles).
- Red: Occasionally seen at altitudes above 200 kilometers (124 miles), red auroras are also caused by the interaction between charged particles and oxygen molecules.
- Blue: At lower altitudes of around 80-100 kilometers (50-62 miles), charged particles can interact with nitrogen molecules, producing a blue hue in the aurora.
- Purple: This color is less common but can be observed when charged particles interact with both oxygen and nitrogen in the atmosphere at varying altitudes.
It is important to note that the intensity and frequency of the Northern Lights can vary with solar activity. During periods of high solar activity, known as the solar maximum, auroras are more likely to occur and may be seen at lower latitudes than usual. The Aurora Australis, or Southern Lights, follow similar principles, and can be seen in the southern hemisphere.
In summary, the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a breathtaking spectacle caused by the interaction between charged particles from the Sun, the Earth’s magnetic field, and its atmosphere. The colors of the aurora vary with gas type and altitude, resulting in an array of stunning colors like green, red, blue, and purple. The intensity of the auroras can be influenced by solar activity, with more intense displays occurring during periods of solar maximum.
Photographing the Northern Lights from an Airplane
Challenges and Tips for Capturing Aurora From the Sky
Photographing the Northern Lights from an airplane can be a unique and exciting experience. However, it comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some tips to help you capture the beauty of the aurora borealis from the sky.
Camera and Settings: A camera with manual settings, such as a DSLR or mirrorless camera, is essential for photographing the Northern Lights. Experiment with long exposures, ISO settings, and wide apertures to find the optimal combination for your camera.
Stability: Since using a tripod is usually not possible on an airplane, you should find a stable surface to rest your camera on. This could be the airplane window or a bag on your lap. Alternatively, you can try resting your arm on an armrest or the window yourself to provide extra stability.
Window Seat: To have the best opportunity to photograph the Northern Lights, you should book a window seat on your flight. Ideally, this should be on the side of the plane facing the aurora.
Timing: Plan your flight around the new moon, as the reduced light pollution will give you a better chance of seeing and photographing the aurora. Be aware that pilots may not always announce the presence of the Northern Lights, so keep an eye on the sky and be prepared to act quickly when they appear.
Focus: Focusing your camera on the Northern Lights can be difficult due to the low light conditions and the vibrating airplane. To help you focus, try using a flashlight to illuminate a small area on the window or use the infinity setting on your lens.
Airplane Window: Airplane windows can sometimes be dirty or scratched, which could affect the clarity of your photographs. To minimize this issue, try to clean the window with a cloth or tissues before you begin taking photos.
By following these tips and adapting to the unique challenges of photographing the Northern Lights from an airplane, you’ll be well on your way to capturing remarkable images of this natural phenomenon.
Mobile Apps and Resources for Tracking the Northern Lights
One of the best ways to track the Northern Lights is by using mobile apps specifically designed for this purpose. A popular app among aurora enthusiasts is My Aurora Forecast & Alerts. This app provides users with information on their likelihood of witnessing the Northern Lights, details about solar winds, and high-resolution sun imagery. Available for both iPhone and Android devices, it caters to tourists and serious aurora watchers alike with its sleek dark design.
In addition to apps like My Aurora Forecast & Alerts, there are several other resources available for tracking aurora activity. The Icelandic Met Office offers reliable aurora forecasts and visibility predictions on their website. They provide real-time data on geomagnetic activity, allowing users to plan their Northern Lights viewing more accurately.
The Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) also serves as an excellent resource for aurora hunters. Operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the SWPC provides information about solar activities, such as sunspots, that may affect aurora visibility on Earth.
For those who prefer a more visual experience, YouTube offers numerous channels and videos dedicated to capturing the breathtaking display of the Northern Lights. Aurora hunters share their experiences and offer tips and tricks for optimal viewing experiences from different locations.
In conclusion, there are various mobile apps and online resources available to help track and optimize your Northern Lights viewing experience. Whether you prefer an intuitive app like My Aurora Forecast & Alerts, the expertise of organizations like the Icelandic Met Office and the SWPC, or tips from fellow aurora hunters on YouTube, these tools will enhance your chances of witnessing the captivating dance of the aurora borealis from an airplane or any other location.
Unique Experiences of Viewing Northern Lights from Airplane
The experience of witnessing the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is truly magical. This natural light show, caused by charged solar particles interacting with Earth’s magnetic field, paints the sky with breathtaking colors and shapes. While most people travel to destinations like Iceland or Scandinavia to get a glimpse of this phenomena on the ground, viewing it from an airplane offers a unique experience like no other.
Airplane passengers get to enjoy the Northern Lights from a different perspective, with a clear and unobstructed view above the clouds. In an aircraft, the lights appear brighter, and their subtle movements can be better appreciated. The serene and quiet atmosphere aboard adds to the mystical experience.
Pilot’s Perspective on the Northern Lights
For pilots like Captain Sigríður Einarsdóttir, an Icelandair pilot, the Northern Lights are a part of their profession. Flying through the skies, they have witnessed the astounding beauty of this phenomenon right from the cockpit. For them, it is both a perk and a privilege to enjoy the light show while on duty.
Cabin crew members also get to relish the Northern Lights during their flights, with some lucky flight attendants able to catch a glimpse from their aircraft windows. The opportunity to share this experience with passengers can make their journey even more special.
As the aviation industry strives to enhance passenger experiences, some airline pilots, like those on EasyJet, have even been known to circle the aircraft or make 360-degree turns to treat their passengers to a stunning view of the Northern Lights. These actions, carefully planned and executed, provide passengers the unique opportunity to enjoy Mother Nature’s light show in ways not possible on land.
Next time you plan a trip to view the Northern Lights, consider booking a flight that traverses the aurora zone— you might just get a memorable experience of viewing this amazing spectacle right from your airplane seat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are in-flight views of the northern lights possible?
Yes, it is possible to see the northern lights from an airplane. The aurora borealis is commonly spotted in areas such as Alaska, northern Canada, Greenland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland. If you’re flying near any of these destinations, there’s a chance you’ll catch the aurora borealis in action during your flight.
What are the optimal flying conditions to see the aurora borealis?
The best conditions for seeing the northern lights on an aircraft are darkness and clear skies. You won’t be able to see the aurora during the summer months, as the sun does not set over the Arctic Circle. However, you will have a chance to spot them between September and April.
Do pilots make special considerations for passengers to view the northern lights?
Pilots might make small adjustments to their flight path or reduce cabin lights when they know the northern lights are visible. However, these adjustments depend on various factors such as the flight’s schedule, route, and weather conditions. It’s essential to remember that the primary responsibility of pilots is to ensure the safety and punctuality of the flight.
Which airlines offer northern lights flights?
There are no specific airlines that offer exclusive northern lights flights. However, flights to Iceland are known for offering glimpses of the dancing lights. Airlines such as Icelandair are particularly popular for providing spectacular in-flight views of the aurora borealis.
Can you spot aurora borealis during a regular flight?
Yes, passengers can spot the aurora borealis during a regular flight, especially if the flight path passes through or near the northernmost regions where the phenomenon occurs. The chances of seeing the northern lights tend to be higher on clear, dark nights and during the colder months of the year.
How does the flight altitude affect northern lights visibility?
The altitude of an aircraft can have a significant impact on the visibility of the northern lights. Since airplanes typically fly at high altitudes, passengers have an increased chance of witnessing the beautiful display of lights with less atmospheric interference. Moreover, the higher the altitude, the closer you are to the aurora, which means brighter and more vivid colors.
