When to See the Northern Lights in Alaska in 2019: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey there, fellow aurora chasers! Are you wondering, "When are the Northern Lights in Alaska in 2019?" You've come to the right place! We're about to dive into the magical world of the aurora borealis, so buckle up and get ready for an illuminating adventure! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and when are the northern lights in alaska 2019.

Understanding the Northern Lights

Before we jump into when to see the Northern Lights in Alaska in 2019, let's briefly talk about what they are. The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural light display predominantly seen in high-latitude regions near the Arctic. They occur when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere, creating a stunning dance of lights in the night sky.

When Can You See the Northern Lights in Alaska?

Alaska is one of the best places on Earth to witness the Northern Lights. Due to its northern location, you can see the aurora from September to April, with the peak viewing season being from late September to late March. So, if you're wondering, "When are the Northern Lights in Alaska in 2019?" the answer is from September 2019 to April 2020.

Peak Hours

The Northern Lights are most active between 10 PM and 2 AM local time. However, they can appear at any time during the night, so it's a good idea to stay up late or wake up early if you're aurora hunting!

Peak Days

The aurora's activity is influenced by the sun's 11-year solar cycle. During the solar maximum, the Northern Lights are more frequent and intense. In 2019, we're in the declining phase of Solar Cycle 24, but don't worry, you can still expect some fantastic aurora shows!

Predicting the Northern Lights

Predicting the Northern Lights with certainty is challenging, but there are tools to help you increase your chances of seeing them. The Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks provides a 30-minute forecast of aurora activity. They use a scale from 0 to 9, with 9 being the strongest activity. For the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights, aim for nights with an aurora forecast of 5 or higher.

Where to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

Alaska is filled with incredible spots to watch the Northern Lights. Here are a few of our favorites:

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is Alaska's aurora capital. With its northern location and frequent clear skies, it's one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. The University of Alaska Fairbanks' Geophysical Institute even has an aurora camera that streams live footage!

Denali National Park

Denali, home to North America's tallest peak, is a breathtaking place to watch the aurora. The park's remote location and lack of light pollution make it an ideal spot for aurora viewing.

Taku Lodge & Pinnacle Grill

This remote lodge near Juneau offers aurora viewing tours. With its cozy cabins and delicious food, it's a fantastic place to chase the Northern Lights.

Tips for Photographing the Northern Lights

Capturing the Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips to help you get the perfect shot:

1. Use a camera with manual mode and a wide-angle lens.
2. Set your camera to a high ISO (around 800-3200), a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower), and a slow shutter speed (around 15-30 seconds).
3. Use a tripod to keep your camera steady.
4. Experiment with different compositions and angles.
5. Be patient and enjoy the moment!

Staying Safe While Chasing the Northern Lights

Chasing the Northern Lights can take you to remote and cold locations. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Dress in layers and wear warm, waterproof boots.
2. Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return.
3. Carry a fully charged phone and a portable charger.
4. Pack snacks, water, and emergency supplies.
5. Stay on marked trails and respect wildlife.

Why You Should Chase the Northern Lights in Alaska

Witnessing the Northern Lights is an experience that will stay with you forever. Alaska's unique combination of northern location, clear skies, and stunning landscapes makes it the perfect place to chase the aurora. So, mark your calendar for September 2019 to April 2020 and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Happy aurora hunting, and until next time, keep your eyes on the sky!