Why Now is a Great Time to See the Northern Lights in North America

The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are dazzling displays of light that can appear in the night sky due to violent storms erupting on the Sun. They form when high-speed particles ejected from the Sun’s surface collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. Most disappear, deflected by the Earth’s magnetic field. Others are redirected toward the poles where they can be observed as a multi-colored glow, luminous spirals, or even curtains of light.

This year the Sun has entered the peak activity period in its eleven-year-long cycle, where its surface is particularly volatile. Outpourings of charged particles, also known as solar wind, are emitted toward the Earth where they cause intense geomagnetic storms.

The unusual strength of this year’s solar wind was most apparent in May when the aurora was seen at exceptionally low latitudes and stronger than in the last two decades. While the photographs of the Eiffel Tower surrounded by ribbons of light circled the Internet, similar displays were also documented in the southern hemisphere. Known as the aurora australis, the Southern Lights are most often observed near the Antarctic Circle, but this year they glowed even above southern Australia.

It is a common misconception that the aurora can only be seen in winter. In fact, the Sun’s heightened activity is expected to reach its peak in the summer of 2025. Although the dancing lights are likely to be seen again in unusual locations, traveling closer to the poles is the only guarantee of seeing them. And it is a tenuous guarantee at best because, as aurora enthusiasts point out, patience is key when it comes to witnessing a stunning celestial display. In addition to the Sun’s activity, key factors include distance from light pollution and the weather. Some of the best viewing conditions are usually found on north-facing coasts on clear, cloudless nights.

Some of the world’s premiere aurora borealis viewing locations are dotted around the northern states, with Fairbanks, Alaska taking the crown. The best aurora season starts here in mid-August, and 2025 is forecast to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Another stunning destination is the San Juan Islands off the northwest coast of Washington. Famous for its serene beaches and exceptional whale-watching opportunities, the archipelago also enjoys minimal light pollution and over 247 days of clear skies. The Northern Lights peak here most often between September and March, but locals have reported sightings throughout the year.