Can you see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks in December?

The most reliable chances to see Alaska’s northern lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis) are in Fairbanks, and above the Arctic Circle. If you visit Alaska in November, December or January, you will experience a very short period of daylight providing a unique experience in the high northern hemisphere.

Can you see aurora in Alaska in December?

Northern Alaska is ideal for Americans wanting a chance to see the aurora borealis. It may be cold in winter (temperatures can drop to -30°F), but the inland Alaskan Arctic — where skies tend to be clearer — is one of the best places in the world to see this famous light show.

What are the chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks?

The northern lights are so prolific in the Fairbanks region and the Arctic that visitors who stay a minimum of three nights and are actively out during the late evening hours increase their chance of seeing the aurora to more than 90 percent!

What is the best time of year to view the Northern Lights in Fairbanks Alaska?

The northern lights occur all four seasons of the year, although they are harder to see under the Midnight Sun. The best time to see the northern lights in Alaska is between August and April, when less daylight leads to darker night skies.

How often does Aurora Borealis happen?

“Active periods are typically about 30 minutes long and occur every two hours, if the activity is high. The aurora is a sporadic phenomenon, occurring randomly for short periods or perhaps not at all.”

Can you see aurora during snow?

Of course, snow clouds can obscure the Northern Lights but the extended darkness enhances your chances of seeing the Aurora – remember, you can’t see them during daylight hours.

How far is the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks?

198 road miles
The Arctic Circle is 198 road miles from Fairbanks on the Dalton Highway. If you reach the Arctic Circle, make certain you come by the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center and get your Arctic Circle Certificate!

How many nights a year can you see the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are actually active all year round. But because they are only typically visible in the aurora zone between 65° and 72° North, they are not visible from April through August when the aurora zone experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight.

Do auroras occur daily?

“Active periods are typically about 30 minutes long, and occur every two hours, if the activity is high. The aurora is a sporadic phenomenon, occurring randomly for short periods or perhaps not at all.”

What are chances of seeing northern lights?

There is no guarantee to see the Northern Lights, even if you are in the best areas. However, a bit of planning will radically increase your chances. [1] In short, good periods are between late September and late March. Statistically there are more Aurora Display in proximity of the two equinoxes.

When is the best time to see the aurora borealis in Fairbanks?

All combined these variables make the Fairbanks region an outstanding destination for possible aurora borealis viewing. When is the best time to see the northern lights? Fairbanks’ Aurora Season is from August 21 to April 21 and the aurora will be visible in Fairbanks an average of four out of five nights when the sky is clear and dark enough.

How can I track the Northern Lights in Fairbanks?

Aurora Tracker The Aurora Tracker correlates three individual streams of data in order to predict northern lights viewing opportunities for six locations in the Fairbanks region. Switch between viewing locations, different days and various times of day to check your viewing chances. Check back often as this data changes frequently.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska?

When is the best time to see the northern lights? Fairbanks’ Aurora Season is from August 21 to April 21 and the aurora will be visible in Fairbanks an average of four out of five nights when the sky is clear and dark enough.

How does the Aurora tracker predict my viewing opportunities?

The Aurora Tracker correlates three individual streams of data in order to predict northern lights viewing opportunities for six locations in the Fairbanks region. Switch between viewing locations, different days and various times of day to check your viewing chances. Check back often as this data changes frequently.