Capturing the Aurora Borealis- A Guide to Viewing and Photographing the Northern Lights with Your Phone

How to View Northern Lights with Phone

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs in the polar regions, where the Earth’s magnetic field interacts with charged particles from the sun. Witnessing this mesmerizing spectacle is a dream for many, and with the advancements in technology, it has become easier than ever to capture these ethereal lights. In this article, we will guide you on how to view and capture the Northern Lights using your phone.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in viewing the Northern Lights is to find a location with a dark sky. Light pollution can significantly diminish the visibility of the Aurora, so it’s best to travel to a remote area away from city lights. Popular destinations include Tromsø in Norway, Fairbanks in Alaska, and Yellowknife in Canada. Once you have chosen your destination, make sure to check the aurora forecast to determine the best time to view the Northern Lights.

Using a Phone Camera for Photography

Capturing the Northern Lights with your phone camera requires some practice and patience. Here are some tips to help you take stunning photos:

1. Use a Tripod: A stable base is essential for long exposure shots. Use a tripod to prevent camera shake and ensure sharp images.
2. Manual Mode: Switch your phone camera to manual mode to control the exposure settings. Adjust the shutter speed to at least 10 seconds and the ISO to a higher value, such as 800 or 1600, to capture more light.
3. Focus on Infinity: Set your camera’s focus to infinity to ensure that the entire scene is in focus.
4. White Balance: Adjust the white balance to ‘Cloudy’ or ‘Fluorescent’ to enhance the colors of the Northern Lights.
5. Experiment with Filters: Some phones come with built-in filters that can help enhance the colors of the Aurora. Try different filters to see which one works best for your photos.

Using a Phone App for Live Aurora Forecast

To increase your chances of viewing the Northern Lights, it’s helpful to use a phone app that provides real-time aurora forecasts. Some popular apps include:

1. Aurora Forecast: This app provides detailed forecasts and a live map of the aurora activity.
2. Aurora Borealis Alerts: An app that sends notifications when the Northern Lights are visible in your area.
3. SpaceWeather: This app offers a variety of space weather information, including aurora forecasts.

Viewing the Northern Lights with Your Phone

When you’re ready to view the Northern Lights, make sure to dress warmly and be patient. The Aurora can appear suddenly or take time to develop. Use your phone’s camera to capture the moment, and don’t forget to enjoy the experience. Remember that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and their appearance can vary greatly from one night to another.

In conclusion, viewing and capturing the Northern Lights with your phone is a rewarding experience that can be achieved with a bit of planning and patience. By following these tips and using the right tools, you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning photos and memories of this magical event.