The Aurora Hunt: I’m Ready, Now What?

Check the aurora forecast:

Use apps like My Aurora Forecast or websites like Space Weather Live. Look for KP 3+ and clear skies! I usually use also the forecast app YR and check for the cloud coverage conditions.

What i like about this app is that you can see the live stream cameras, if you see some activity go outside and check the sky! Something magical will happening!

How to Read the Aurora App (and What KP Means)

When you open an aurora app (like My Aurora Forecast), you’ll see a lot of numbers and maps, here’s what matters most:

KP Index (The Big One!)

What it is: The KP index measures geomagnetic activity on a scale from 0 to 9.

How it works: The higher the KP, the stronger the aurora and the farther south it can be seen.

• • KP 0–2: Weak aurora (only visible in Arctic areas).

  • KP 3–4: Good aurora in places like Lofoten, Tromsø, or Iceland.

  • KP 5+: Strong storm! Lights may be visible far south (even in Europe/USA).

👉 In Lofoten, you can often see auroras with KP 2+ if the sky is clear.

2️⃣ Cloud Cover:

Even with a high KP, clouds block the view. Always check the cloud map—green means clear skies, white means cloudy.

3️⃣ Aurora Probability (%)

This is your chance of seeing the lights based on current activity and your location.

• Over 30% = good chances if skies are clear.

• Over 50% = get your boots on go out now!

4️⃣ Direction (Look North!)

Most apps will show an arrow or compass indicating where to look. In Lofoten, this is usually toward the north, facing horizon.

5️⃣ Short-term Forecast (Next 30–60 min)

Some apps have a “real-time aurora oval” showing where the lights are active at that exact moment great for last-minute runs!

💡 Quick Rule:

Clear skies + KP 2 or higher = Go outside!

Patience is key—the lights often appear in short bursts.

Get away from city lights

Yes, but no. If the aurora is strong enough you will get to see it even in the middle of the city but is better to drive away. Even small towns can have light pollution. Drive or walk to darker spots, coastal areas and mountain viewpoints are perfect.

Be patient (and stay warm!)

Auroras are unpredictable! Bring blankets, hot drinks, and embrace the wait, it can take hours, but it’s worth it.

Look north, but all around

The lights usually appear in the northern sky, but they can dance anywhere above you. Keep scanning! I usually scan the sky with my camera, you can also point your phone towards the sky to see if you can catch something, aurora always starts weak and then makes the big kaboom!

Stay late (or wake early)

Auroras often peak between 10 PM – 2 AM, but they can show up anytime. Don’t give up too early.

Bring a tripod for photos

Use long exposure (5–10 seconds) and a wide lens. Even faint auroras look magical in photos.

Keep your eyes adjusted to darkness

Avoid bright screens, your eyes need 20+ minutes in the dark to catch fainter auroras!

💡 Pro Tip: Auroras often come in bursts. If you see them fade, don’t leave, they might come back even stronger!