In Norway, we consider ourselves to be very lucky to have the beautiful northern lights dancing across the sky during winter. But instead of always looking up, we can now see this natural wonder from a different perspective, thanks to a NASA film featuring some pretty incredible images. Check it out below!
Aurora borealis from space
Experiencing the magical northern lights is at the top of many travellers’ bucket lists. Many people who spend time in Norway are fortunate enough to catch a glimpse but almost nobody has seen them from above – as in from space.
NASA offers some incredible images in the video below. It consists of several time-lapse recordings from the International Space Station (ISS) and offers 4K images of both the aurora borealis (northern lights) and the aurora australis (southern lights near the South Pole). So turn out the lights, play the video in full-screen mode, and enjoy five minutes of startling beauty.
Aurora borealis from space
Although it may not be long before space tourism will be available for more people, it doesn’t seem likely that most of us can expect to enjoy a NASA-like view any time soon.
Here in Norway, however, there are many opportunities to see the northern lights with one's feet planted safely on the ground. The part of Northern Norway that lies above the Arctic Circle is amongst the best places in the world to experience the magical light show. Learn more and find your northern lights destination here.
In the northern part of the country, aurora borealis has always played an important role in culture and mythology. But what has been for centuries considered a divine miracle, now has a clear scientific explanation. As the NASA video states, the phenomenon occurs when electrically charged electrons and protons in the Earth’s magnetic field collide with neutral atoms in the upper atmosphere.
Scientific explanation aside, we are still awestruck when we see the colourful northern lights. The fact that we are seeing the Earth’s magnetic field in action, facing the forces of the sun, just makes it all the more fascinating. Science and sheer beauty can go hand in hand!
Experience the aurora borealis
Get set to experience this amazing natural wonder in Norway.
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4+ Days ・ September - MarchBook nowShort winter cruise
Tromsø and a Hurtigruten CruiseThis tour includes a cruise with Hurtigruten. Choose from a wide selection of winter activities including dog sledding and northern lights excursions. / Authentic ScandinaviaPrice From 7 355 NOK
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Tromsø, the North Cape and KirkenesTour including a return cruise from Tromsø to Kirkenes with Hurtigruten. Visit the North Cape and try winter activities including dog sledding and snowmobiling. / Authentic ScandinaviaPrice From 14 500 NOK
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Boat tour in TromsøJoin a northern lights cruise and enjoy delicious arctic tapas from our partner in Tromsø, while hunting for the northern lights! / Brim ExplorerPrice From 1 890 NOK
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Northern lights at a private campYour guide will choose the camp location with the highest chance of seeing the northern lights. All camps have shelters, toilets, campfires, and benches outside. / Fjord ToursPrice From 1 490 NOK
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Winter experience outside of TromsøSpend a night in a private crystal Lavvo in the Lyngen Alps. Learn how to photograph the aurora and try snowshoeing. Return transfers, lunch, dinner, and breakfast are also included. / Booknordics.comPrice From 3 390 NOK
4 Days ・ October - MarchBook nowHoliday package in Tromsø
Trip in Tromsø and the Lyngen AlpsEnjoy two nights in central Tromsø , including a northern lights tour. Stay in a Crystal Lavvo in the Lyngen Alps, with a view of the auroras. Local transfers, activities and meals included. / Booknordics.comPrice From 11 220 NOK
17 Hours ・ November - MarchBook nowSami experience from Tromsø
Overnight reindeer sledding tour with lavvo stayTry reindeer sledding, spend the night in a traditional Sami tent, feed reindeer, and enjoy Arctic landscapes. With some luck, the northern lights might appear! / Booknordics.comPrice From 3 995 NOK
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6+ Days ・ April - SeptemberBook nowLofoten Summer Adventure
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