What are the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are the result of electrically charged particles released from solar flares that collide with the Earth's atmosphere. The colours released usually appear as greenish lights dancing across the sky. During intense solar flares reds, blues and violets are also clearly visible. In local Sami mythology the lights are caused by the tail of an arctic fox as it brushes across the fells and mountains sending snow and sparks into the night sky. .
When can I see them?
September to April. The Northern lights are dependent on the release of solar flares from the sun. This happens with varying intensity all year round. All you need to see them is a reasonably clear night sky. Hence, you need to wait till night returns to the Arctic.
Where can I see them?
The Northern Lights congregate around the Earth's magnetic poles. Hence they are best viewed in the polar regions. However, there is a distinguishable aurora belt that circles the North Magnetic Pole where the Northern Lights have the greatest concentration. In Europe, the most active zone is between 67ºN and 70ºN. For example, in Finland, you are 10 times more likely to see the lights in Lapland than you are in Helsinki in the south. We are located in the heart of the zone at 67º 48' 51" North.
How do I get there?
Lapland is conveniently serviced by a number of airports with daily flights to Helsinki and international flights to Europe and Asia. Planes fly daily to Kittilä airport from Helsinki and abroad. Check schedules and fares with Finnair and Norwegian Air.
Are they easy to photograph?
As long as you are well prepared it is as easy as clicking a button. We can help you in your preparations to ensure you have a safe, comfortable and amazing time with your camera in the magic of the Northern Lights.
Can I use my smart phone?
A smart phone is usually very limited in its ability to capture the Northern Lights due to a lack of manual controls. Lens quality and software are also an impediment to the quality of the pictures. They are no match for the quality of image achieved with a decent SLR camera. A quality manual camera has the ability of clearly capturing all the different intensities and forms of swirling light. Even the lights that are barely visible to the human eye can be clearly rendered with the correct exposure.
Do I need my own SLR camera?
An SLR camera that is familiar to you is an advantage when photographing outside in the cold. However, we can also provide you with one of our own cameras for you to use.
How much technical knowledge do I need?
Any technical knowledge is an advantage. However, we can provide you with assistance up to the level that all you have to do is make the composition and press the shutter.
What is there to do if the Northern Lights refuse to shine?
The attractions of the Arctic extend far beyond the Aurora. See our section on the seasonal activities available that are more than just an accompaniment to your Northern Lights experience. Finnish Lapland is a winter wonderland that caters to all age groups and interests. There are many special experiences in the Arctic that a camera can't capture.
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are the result of electrically charged particles released from solar flares that collide with the Earth's atmosphere. The colours released usually appear as greenish lights dancing across the sky. During intense solar flares reds, blues and violets are also clearly visible. In local Sami mythology the lights are caused by the tail of an arctic fox as it brushes across the fells and mountains sending snow and sparks into the night sky. .
When can I see them?
September to April. The Northern lights are dependent on the release of solar flares from the sun. This happens with varying intensity all year round. All you need to see them is a reasonably clear night sky. Hence, you need to wait till night returns to the Arctic.
Where can I see them?
The Northern Lights congregate around the Earth's magnetic poles. Hence they are best viewed in the polar regions. However, there is a distinguishable aurora belt that circles the North Magnetic Pole where the Northern Lights have the greatest concentration. In Europe, the most active zone is between 67ºN and 70ºN. For example, in Finland, you are 10 times more likely to see the lights in Lapland than you are in Helsinki in the south. We are located in the heart of the zone at 67º 48' 51" North.
How do I get there?
Lapland is conveniently serviced by a number of airports with daily flights to Helsinki and international flights to Europe and Asia. Planes fly daily to Kittilä airport from Helsinki and abroad. Check schedules and fares with Finnair and Norwegian Air.
Are they easy to photograph?
As long as you are well prepared it is as easy as clicking a button. We can help you in your preparations to ensure you have a safe, comfortable and amazing time with your camera in the magic of the Northern Lights.
Can I use my smart phone?
A smart phone is usually very limited in its ability to capture the Northern Lights due to a lack of manual controls. Lens quality and software are also an impediment to the quality of the pictures. They are no match for the quality of image achieved with a decent SLR camera. A quality manual camera has the ability of clearly capturing all the different intensities and forms of swirling light. Even the lights that are barely visible to the human eye can be clearly rendered with the correct exposure.
Do I need my own SLR camera?
An SLR camera that is familiar to you is an advantage when photographing outside in the cold. However, we can also provide you with one of our own cameras for you to use.
How much technical knowledge do I need?
Any technical knowledge is an advantage. However, we can provide you with assistance up to the level that all you have to do is make the composition and press the shutter.
What is there to do if the Northern Lights refuse to shine?
The attractions of the Arctic extend far beyond the Aurora. See our section on the seasonal activities available that are more than just an accompaniment to your Northern Lights experience. Finnish Lapland is a winter wonderland that caters to all age groups and interests. There are many special experiences in the Arctic that a camera can't capture.