The mystical phenomenon of the northern lights or Aurora Borealis is something that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. You do not often see something as beautiful as the Northern lights-Sweden; they are a memorable experience.
You might ask, ‘Where can I see the northern lights?’ Unfortunately, this doesn’t happen everywhere due to conditions like latitude, which is precisely what you want to know before planning your trip to avoid disappointment.
This article will discuss everything you need to know about experiencing the northern lights in Sweden and why it’s such a great place for this activity. Read on to learn more about this magical experience and where you should go to get your chance to see it!
1. About Northern Lights, Sweden
Have you ever seen the Northern Lights? They’re a beautiful natural phenomenon seen in certain parts of the world. The northern lights are a natural phenomenon when the sun’s solar particles collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. These collisions cause the air to glow and create the beautiful colours we see in the northern lights.
2. What Causes the Northern Lights to Happen
There are two Northern Lights types – the Aurora Borealis and the Aurora Australis. Both are caused by electrically charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth’s atmosphere. The difference is that the former occurs in the Earth’s northern hemisphere, whereas the latter occurs in the southern hemisphere.
Aurora Borealis appears when the charged particles enter the atmosphere at a much lower altitude than they do for the Aurora Australis. Once they enter the atmosphere, collisions occur between particles with gas atoms, causing them to emit light. The colour of the light depends on the type of gas atom that is hit.
The colour of the lights depends on which gas atoms collide with—nitrogen creates red and green lights, while oxygen creates blue and purple lights in the night sky. Pretty cool, right?
3. Norway or Sweden: Which European Country is Better for Northern Lights
Some say Norway is the best destination for catching a glimpse of the northern lights. And while it’s a beautiful country, Sweden has them beat. Here are three reasons why:
1. Sweden is closer to the Arctic Circle than Norway, meaning you have a better chance of seeing the lights.
2. Sweden has more nights than Norway, giving you more opportunities to glimpse the aurora borealis.
3. Sweden is home to the Abisko National Park, dubbed “the best place in the world to see the northern lights.
4. Ideal Time for the Visit
The timing of your trip is just as important as where you go to experience the aurora borealis. The best time to visit Sweden is between June and September, during the northern summer months when the weather is mild and straightforward with clear skies.
During the winter, when you’re visiting during the northern winter season, the skies are often cloudy, and the lights of the north are less likely to be visible.
Just remember that the lights are unpredictable, so you might not see them every night while looking for them.
5. Tips When Experiencing the Northern Lights in Sweden
1. Book a tour
There’s no better way to see the Northern Lights than with a guide who knows the best spots and can help you get the most out of your experience.
2. Bring a flashlight
The best way to see the dancing lights in the sky is with a flashlight. You can use this to look up at the sky and find the dancing lights.
3. Wear comfortable clothes and be prepared to stay outside in the cold
A light jacket, a wrap, and warm clothes are essential for experiencing the northern lights. If you want to be out after dark as you look up at the sky, you must ensure you’re prepared for the cold. If it’s warm outside, bring a jacket if you get a little chilly while out.
4. Share your experience
Whether you’re sharing your experience with your friends or posting about it online, the aurora lights are even more magical when shared with others.
5. Take pictures
If you have a camera, take pictures of the lights in the sky. You can use these as keepsakes or share them online to show other people visiting your trip to see the northern lights.
6. Stay patient
The Northern Lights can be elusive, so be prepared to wait for them to appear.
6. How to Photograph the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that can only be seen in certain parts of the world, and Sweden is one of the best places to see them.
But photographing the Northern Lights can be tricky. The right equipment and knowing its proper use are a must. Here are a few tips:
1. Use a tripod. It will keep your camera steady so that you can take good photos.
2. Use a fast lens (f/2.8 or faster) to capture more light.
3. Set your camera to manual mode and use a long exposure (10 seconds or more).
4. Shoot in RAW format to get the most detail in your photos.
5. Keep your camera warm so it doesn’t fog up when you take it out into the cold air.
7. Final Note
So, if you’re looking for an experience of a lifetime, we suggest heading to the Northern Lights in Sweden. With the best landscapes and conditions in the world for viewing the Aurora Borealis, you’re guaranteed an incredible trip.
Plan your trip, though, as accommodation and tour options fill quickly! And, of course, don’t forget your camera to capture the memories of this natural wonder.
Last Updated on March 18, 2024 by Parina Parmar