It is a magical experience to see the Northern Lights play in the sky. If you live in or are visiting Sweden, you actually have the chance to see it with your own eyes. Maybe you don't need as far as you think.
The best Northern Lights season runs from September to March, with Lappland, the northernmost region in Sweden, offering some of Europe's most reliable viewing opportunities, according to Visit Sweden.
Abisko and Kiruna, both in Lapland, are popular destinations. The mountains around Abisko often contribute to clearer skies, making it attractive for aurora viewing.
Auroras occur within a region called the auroral oval, which surrounds Earth's magnetic poles, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Northern Canada, Alaska, Norway and Iceland are also viewing destinations.
The Northern Lights can occasionally be seen in southern Sweden, according to SMHI, Sweden's weather and climate agency. During strong geomagnetic storms, displays may reach Stockholm, Gothenburg and sometimes as far as Skåne, the southernmost region.
Freezing temperatures are not necessary. A clear night at 5°C (41°F) can offer better viewing conditions than a cloudy night at −15°C (5°F). Darkness, clear skies and solar activity matter more than temperature.
Streetlights, illuminated buildings and the glow from cities can make faint auroras difficult to see. A dark lakeshore, open countryside or another location away from city lights, with an unobstructed view of the northern horizon, can improve the chances of seeing them.
So prepare yourself for a late cozy night out in nature. The best viewing hours are often between 10 pm and 2 am, although auroras can appear earlier or later.
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