The best times of year to see the Northern and Southern Lights vary based on seasonal conditions and geographical locations.
Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) Optimal Viewing Period: The Northern Lights are most visible from late August to mid-April, with peak activity often occurring around the equinoxes in March and September.
Best Months: The months of November through February are particularly favorable due to longer nights and darker skies, providing optimal conditions for viewing.
Ideal Times: The lights are typically most active between 10 PM and 2 AM, with the strongest displays often seen around midnight. Locations such as Norway, Sweden, Finland, Canada, and Alaska are prime spots for sightings.
Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) Optimal Viewing Period: The Southern Lights can be seen year-round, but the best time to view them is during the Antarctic winter, from March to September.
Best Months: March is considered the prime month for sightings, as the nights are long and dark, and solar activity is often high.
Ideal Locations: Viewing opportunities are best in areas like Tasmania, New Zealand, and the Antarctic, where light pollution is minimal.