Discover the Northern Lights
When Will You See the Aurora Borealis?
The aurora borealis — the Northern Lights — is one of the most breathtaking natural phenomena on Earth. Swedish Lapland, with its pristine dark skies and minimal light pollution, is one of the best places in the world to witness it. The aurora season runs from late September to late March, with the clearest displays typically occurring around the spring and autumn equinoxes.
Best Viewing Conditions
The aurora is best seen on clear, dark nights between 10 PM and 2 AM. A Kp index of 3 or higher is usually enough to see the lights from Abisko or Kiruna. Equinoxes in March and September tend to bring the highest geomagnetic activity.
We recommend heading away from city lights to a frozen lake or elevated viewpoint. Our local guides know exactly where to go and when — maximising your chances of a sighting.
How to Check If the Aurora Will Appear?
If you are dreaming of witnessing the aurora borealis, aurora prediction tools can greatly increase your chances. These tools analyse solar activity and geomagnetic conditions to estimate when and where auroras might appear.
Understand the Key Terminology
Before using aurora prediction tools, it helps to understand a few key terms:
- Kp Index: A geomagnetic activity scale from 0 to 9. The higher the Kp index, the more likely an aurora will be visible. At lower latitudes, you typically need a Kp index of 6 or above.
- Solar Wind Speed: A higher solar wind speed (measured in km/s) usually increases the likelihood of an aurora.
- IMF (Interplanetary Magnetic Field): The Bz component of the IMF is key — when Bz is negative, more solar particles interact with Earth's atmosphere, making auroras more likely.
- Check the Kp Index and Geomagnetic Conditions.
- Start by checking the Kp index forecast. A Kp of 5 or higher means auroras are visible closer to the poles. A Kp of 6–7 gives people further south a chance to see the lights.
- Also look at the solar wind speed and the Bz component of the IMF:
- Solar wind speeds above 500 km/s are ideal.
- If the Bz is negative (especially −5 nT or lower), auroras are more likely.
If you are at home or prefer to stay warm, check live aurora cameras near your location — such as the Kiruna IRF camera.