Northern Lights in Narvik
Narvik is one of the most obvious choices to experience the incredible Northern Lights.
Narvik is located north of the Arctic Circle, at 68 degrees north and located within the auroral zone. This is the main reason why Narvik is one of the best Nordic destinations for the many stunning colourful light moments.
When to see the Northern Lights
Every year from the beginning of September to the middle of April visitors heading for Narvik to experience the unforgettable nature light show.
Remember, there are no guarantees about discovering the Northern Lights. It is a combination of luck, determination and how long you stay.
The local tourist office can give you valuable information about where and when the Northern Lights can be experienced in Narvik. The best chances to discover the dances and flames playfully on the Arctic sky is between 18:00 and 01:00 in the night.
Northern Light activities
During the entire winter, local tour operators offer exclusive Northern Light excursions through the magical landscape. Don`t hesitate to get a common Northern Light friend for life, while you get a greater insight about the Northern Lights and the Narvik area.
What is the Northern Light
Among people, the Northern Lights are also known from its Latin name "Aurora Borealis", but what is the explanation of the phenomenon. The Northern Lights are a result of interactions between charged particles from the sun and air atoms high in the atmosphere. The air lights up when large numbers of electrically charged particles with a high-speed stream in towards the Earth along its magnetic field and collide with the highest air particles.
Most Northern Lights occur between 90 and 130 km above sea level, but some extend to several hundred kilometres up. Therefore it is possible to watch it at horizontal distances of several hundred kilometres.
Why the different colours
The colour of the Northern lights depends on which gas (oxygen or nitrogen) is being excited by the electrons. Nitrogen gives a blue light and oxygen emits either a greenish-yellow light. The blending of these colours can also produce purples, pinks and white. There is also an ultraviolet light that only can be seen by a special camera and not by the human eye.
