Chasing the Northern Lights: A Unique Family Adventure

I have always wanted to see The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. They are on my bucket list.

They have captivated people for centuries. This dazzling natural phenomenon can be seen in the night skies of countries such as Canada, Iceland, and Norway.

But more recently, it has been seen in the UK!

Its multi-coloured dancing lights evoke a sense of wonder and awe, making it a must-see for many travellers.

But beyond its beauty, the Northern Lights also offer a unique opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories.

In this blog post, we will explore all about the Northern Lights and how they can help bring families closer together.

So, grab your loved ones and get ready to embark on a journey that combines the beauty of nature and family bonding time

It is these colours that make it a breathtaking sight for those lucky enough to witness it.

The Northern Lights in the UK

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are typically visible in regions located far north of the UK, such as Scandinavia, Canada, and Alaska.

However, during periods of high solar activity, they can occasionally be seen in more southern locations, including parts of the United Kingdom.

It is pretty rare to see the Northern Lights in the UK compared to places closer to the magnetic poles. Northern Scotland, particularly the Orkney and Shetland Islands, is one of the best locations in the UK to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights when they do occur.

Other northern regions of the UK, such as Northern Ireland and the northern parts of England, may also have occasional sightings during periods of heightened solar activity.

There are several factors that affect the visibility of the Northern Lights in the UK.

These include solar activity, weather conditions, and light pollution.

How to improve your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in the UK

• Monitor Aurora forecasts
• Choose locations with minimal light pollution
• Be patient, as sightings are not guaranteed and can be relatively infrequent in southern regions of the UK.

The beauty of the Northern Lights makes it a memorable and educational experience that can strengthen family connections. You can also instill an appreciation for the natural world in your family.

Embracing sustainable practices in nature

As beautiful as the Northern Lights are, we need to make sure that we embrace sustainable practices that protect and preserve the environment. The planet is the most valuable asset we have, and it is up to us to look after it for our future generations.

By adopting eco-friendly practices such as –

• Rreducing waste
• Conserving energy, and
• Practicing responsible outdoor recreation, we can minimise our impact on the natural world and ensure that it remains vibrant and thriving.

I always try to be as planet friendly as I can when I go out and about. This includes packing reusable cups and food containers, and properly disposing of waste. The same ideas apply when you are out Aurora hunting.

10 tips for hunting for the Northern Lights

If you’re planning to go out and look for the Northern Lights near your home, here are ten planet-friendly tips for your family:

• Choose the right location: Research the best places to view the northern lights, such as areas with minimal light pollution and clear skies.
• Check the forecast: Keep an eye on aurora forecast websites or apps to increase your chances of seeing the northern lights.
• Be patient: Sometimes the northern lights can be unpredictable, so be prepared to wait for the right conditions.
• Dress warmly: Since you will likely be spending extended periods of time outside, dress in layers and make sure you have warm winter gear.
• Bring a tripod: To capture the beauty of the northern lights with your camera, a tripod is essential for long exposure shots.
• Use a camera with manual settings: A camera that allows you to manually adjust settings such as aperture and shutter speed will help you capture the northern lights effectively. I actually just use my iPhone on night mode with a timer of 10 seconds.
• Stay up late: The best time to see the northern lights is typically late at night or in the early hours of the morning.
• Stay away from artificial light: Avoid areas with streetlights or other sources of artificial light that can interfere with your viewing experience.
• Keep an open mind: Even if the aurora forecast is not ideal, sometimes the northern lights can appear unexpectedly, so always keep an open mind.
• Enjoy the moment: Remember to take a break from trying to capture the perfect photo and simply enjoy the beauty of the northern lights with your own eyes.

By implementing these tips during your local Northern Lights viewing adventure, you can create a memorable and sustainable experience for the whole family.

Final Thoughts

Experiencing the Northern Lights with your family is a remarkable way to create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds that tie you together.

So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and embark on a family journey that celebrates the wonder of the Northern Lights.

Follow Boredom Banishers for more fun family friendly ideas.