Soumendra Jena
Serial Entrepreneur & Creator
October 2024 marked a pivotal moment in my life as I embarked on an extraordinary journey through Iceland, witnessing the most spectacular display of Northern Lights in over 70 years. This blog post recounts my awe-inspiring experience and provides insights into this natural phenomenon that left me utterly spellbound.
Before my unforgettable 2024 adventure, I had my first taste of the Northern Lights during a winter road trip to Iceland in February 2023. This initial experience was what sparked my passion for Aurora chasing and led to my return trip in 2024.
Winter Wonderland and Celestial Magic
My primary goal for the 2023 trip was to experience Iceland's winter landscape, but the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights added an extra layer of excitement. Despite the challenging weather conditions typical of Icelandic winters, we were fortunate enough to witness the Aurora Borealis on several nights.
Capturing the Moment
During this trip, I created a video documenting our Northern Lights experience. This visual diary not only captured the beauty of the Aurora but also our reactions and the emotions we felt witnessing this natural wonder for the first time.
This initial experience in 2023 was what fueled my desire to return in 2024 during the peak of the solar cycle. It's amazing to reflect on how much my appreciation and understanding of this phenomenon grew between these two trips.
Understanding the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, scientifically known as Aurora Borealis, are a mesmerizing natural light display in the Earth's sky. This phenomenon occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with atoms in the Earth's atmosphere, typically at high latitudes near the magnetic poles. The result is a breathtaking dance of colorful lights across the night sky, predominantly in shades of green, pink, and purple.
Why We Don't See Northern Lights in India
The reason we don't witness Northern Lights in India is primarily due to our geographical location. Aurora Borealis is typically visible in regions closer to the magnetic poles, particularly in the "auroral zone" between 60 and 75 degrees north latitude. India, being much closer to the equator, falls outside this zone, making it impossible to observe this phenomenon naturally.
The 2024 Northern Lights Spectacle
2024 has been hailed as a remarkable year for Aurora chasers. For the first time in seven decades, the Northern Lights are predicted to be at their strongest across Scandinavian countries. This exceptional occurrence is due to the sun reaching the peak of its 11-year solar cycle, resulting in increased solar activity and, consequently, more frequent and intense auroral displays.
Our Iceland Adventure
During our 10-day road trip across Iceland, we were blessed with clear skies and favorable Aurora forecasts almost every night. The anticipation of witnessing this celestial spectacle added an extra layer of excitement to our journey.
Tracking the Aurora
We relied heavily on iPhone apps to track Aurora forecasts. These apps provided invaluable information about the best times and locations to spot the Northern Lights. Armed with this knowledge, we would drive to dark areas away from city lights, enhancing our chances of a clear sighting.
Photography Tips
While professional photographers recommend using a camera with a tripod for long-exposure shots, I managed to capture stunning images using my Samsung S24 Ultra. The phone's advanced night mode capabilities proved more than adequate for preserving these magical moments.
The Mesmerizing Experience
Words fail to fully describe the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights. Watching the sky come alive with swirling ribbons of green and pink light was nothing short of magical. Each night brought a unique display, from faint green wisps to vibrant, dancing curtains of light that seemed to stretch across the entire sky.
Tips for Future Aurora Chasers
Plan your trip during peak Aurora season (September to March).
Use reliable Aurora forecast apps.
Choose locations away from light pollution.
Be patient and prepared for long nights.
Dress warmly - Aurora watching often involves standing still in cold temperatures.
Consider joining guided tours for expert insights and the best viewing spots.
My Northern Lights experience in Iceland was truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It not only fulfilled a long-held dream but also deepened my appreciation for the wonders of our natural world. If you have the opportunity to witness this spectacular phenomenon, especially during this peak year of 2024, don't hesitate. It's an experience that will stay with you forever, reminding you of the incredible beauty our planet has to offer.
