The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are an extraordinary natural light display mainly seen in high-latitude Arctic regions. Norway stands out as a top destination to enjoy the limitless, star-filled sky and the vibrant colors that dance across the Arctic heavens.

This awe-inspiring phenomenon happens when charged particles from the sun meet Earth’s atmosphere, generating light bursts that paint breathtaking scenes in the sky. The sun releases a flow of charged particles, known as the solar wind, which interacts with Earth’s magnetic field upon arrival. As these particles collide with atmospheric gases, mainly oxygen and nitrogen, light is emitted. The color of the aurora depends on the type of gas and the altitude of the collision:

• Green: The most common color, produced by oxygen around 60 miles above Earth.

• Red: Also due to oxygen, but at higher altitudes, above 150 miles.

• Blue and Purple: Caused by nitrogen molecules.

Winter, from late September to early April, is the best season for viewing the Northern Lights. Longer nights and clear skies increase the likelihood of seeing the aurora, typically visible between 10 PM and 2 AM, though sightings may sometimes occur outside this window.