DIY Northern Lights Viewing Guide
How to See the Aurora Borealis in Alaska

Table of Contents

Aurora Borealis — The Northern Lights!

The Aurora Borealis—also known as the Northern Lights—is one of nature’s most breathtaking displays. The sky can shift from calm to wildly alive in seconds, igniting with dancing ribbons of green, purple, and red. Photos will never equal the real-life experience of watching these waves of color move overhead.

About the Author

I began my photography journey in 1976 and was first published in 1980. Since then, I’ve earned awards, been featured in major publications, and published work worldwide. But nothing captured my heart quite like the Northern Lights.

The first time I saw them, they were in full, wild motion—twisting, pulsing, expanding across the sky. That night changed me forever. I became addicted to the chase, heading out hundreds of times over the years in search of that next unforgettable moment.

Beyond the thrill of capturing the aurora, I found deep joy in helping others experience it. Whether teaching photography or guiding people under the night sky, sharing this passion has been one of the most rewarding parts of my life.

The 3 Biggest Northern Lights Myths

1. “The lights are better in Fairbanks.”
2. “High Kp Index means the lights will be amazing tonight.”
3. “Low Kp Index means don’t bother going out.”

These myths spread like the “telephone game”—the more they’re repeated, the less accurate they become. Many visitors, especially around Anchorage, rely on outdated or completely incorrect information.

This guide teaches both the essential science and the simple, reliable system I’ve used to achieve nearly 100% viewing success over more than 10 years.

Why Alaska Offers the Best Aurora Viewing

Prime Latitude & Weather Advantage

Alaska sits directly beneath the auroral oval, meaning aurora activity is frequent even during average solar conditions. Combine this with low light pollution and clear winter skies, and Alaska becomes one of the best aurora destinations in the world.

Access to Dark-Sky Zones

The key is getting outside city lights. Remote pullouts, high viewpoints, and inland areas all offer wide, unobstructed views perfect for aurora watching and photography.

When to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

Mid-August through Mid-April

This period offers the best combination of darkness, geomagnetic activity, and clear skies.

Monthly Breakdown

• August–September: 42°–31°F (5.6° to -0.6°C). Early-season auroras & twilight photography.
  WARNING: These months have high cloud and rain frequency—visibility often poor.
• October–December: 16° to -13°F (-8.9° to -25°C). Strong activity, long nights, crisp clarity.
• January–March (Best Months): -17° to -3°F (-27.2° to -19.4°C). Most consistent clear skies.
• April: ~20°F (-6.7°C). Final chance for the season with milder weather.

Steps to Maximize Aurora Viewing Success

1. Weather Forecast Monitoring
2. Geomagnetic Activity Monitoring
3. Road Conditions
4. Choosing the Right Viewing Location

Weather Forecast Monitoring

Cloud cover is the #1 deciding factor. A fully cloudy sky is essentially a solid wall—if it’s overcast, you cannot see the aurora, no matter the solar activity.

Some clouds are okay and can even make for beautiful photos. But “mostly cloudy” or “cloudy” forecasts mean it’s best to stay home.

Geomagnetic / Solar Activity Monitoring

Auroras occur when solar particles interact with Earth’s magnetic field. Monitoring solar wind speed, density, Bt, and especially Bz helps predict whether the lights will appear strong, weak, or not at all.

The simple rule: Remember “Four 3’s and Four 5’s.” Values starting at 3 = good, 5 or higher = excellent.

Exception: Bz must be negative. – Starting at -3 = good – -5 or lower = excellent

If Bz is +5 or higher, auroras typically won’t be visible to the naked eye.

Recommended Apps & Web Tools

**Weather:** https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/weather/