Northern Lights

What exactly are the Northern Lights?

The northern lights appear when charged particles from the sun collide with gaseous particles of the earth’s atmosphere. The lights are not exclusive to the north and can be seen in both the northern hemisphere (they are known as "Aurora Borealis" when they occur here) and southern hemisphere ("Aurora Australis") above the magnetic poles.

The auroras occur at the poles because the atmosphere above a magnetic pole is weaker and therefore more particles from the sun manage to enter the earth's atmosphere.

The phenomenon appears as coloured lights. Many colours have been reported but green or pink are the most common, the colour you see is dictated by the type of gas particle involved in the collision. These lights can take many forms - from scattered patches of light to streamers, arcs, or gyrating curtains. 

Can I see the Northern Lights in Bergen?

Yes, you can see northern lights in Bergen.

While sometimes it is possible to see the Northern Lights from Bergen, their appearance is not as common as in Northern Norway. 

If you are really determined to see the Northern Lights during your time in Bergen, don't make the mistake of waiting for the lights to come to you. Commit to making a trip to where the lights are more likely to be visible.

When can I see the Northern lights in Bergen? 

There is no such thing as a guaranteed time or place to see the Northern Lights, however the latitude of the northern coast of Norway makes it one of the best places in the world to have a chance to view the Aurora Borealis.

• Dark and cloudless skies are necessary for the lights to be viewable.
• The most likely time to watch them in the northern hemisphere is during the winter months.
• It is reasonable to try to see the Northern Lights between the end of September and the end of March.
• Generally, it is good to look for them between 10pm and 2am on clear nights, however they can occur anytime during dark hours.