subject: How To See The Northern Lights In Alaska [print this page] One of the main reasons why tourists choose Alaska as their top holiday destination is the northern lights. The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are streaks of luminous colors across the skies resulting from the collision of solar particles against the Earth's atmosphere as they are being attracted by the magnetic poles. The aurora doesn't have a definite shape. It can appear as spiral, linear, or just about any shape and size depending on the density of the light particles being formed on a particular area of the sky. Travelers who first see the northern lights are expected to experience a momentary suspension of time and space caused by intense awe and wonder. There is no fixed schedule for the aurora borealis to appear in the sky, as they randomly show anytime they want. Unless you know somebody from the Geophysical Institute of the University of Alaska to give you updates on the solar storm activity which determines the intensity of the aurora's display, you will need to be alert every now and then in order to catch a glimpse of it.
There are some tried and tested ways, however, to improve your chances of seeing the marvel of the aurora. Here are some of them:
Stay for at least a week. Your chances of seeing the aurora increases the longer you stay in one place. Studies also show that the area around Fairbanks loses seven minutes of light per day during the equinox, which falls on either the 21st or 22nd of September.
You will never go wrong if you are in the right place. Fairbanks has been the most ideal place to stay for spectators as it is located within the auroral zone.
Make sure to define the reason of going to Alaska, that is, your intention to see the northern lights. The Chena Hot Springs has been the favorite hangout of travelers while waiting for the northern lights. A short walk up the hill you will find a small cabin with windows specially designed to see the best view of the skies. Here you can get yourself warm with family or friends while waiting for the aurora. Other activities you might participate such as skiing and stuff are just added bonus.
There are hotels and accommodations in Alaska that have the "northern lights wakeup call". Ask somebody to wake you up whenever the aurora appears.
