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The Ultimate Guide to Finding Dark Skies: Light Pollution Maps for Aurora Hunters

You've traveled north to see the Northern Lights in all their glory, but unless you know where to go, light pollution can spoil the show. To find the darkest skies and best views of the Aurora Borealis, you need an ace up your sleeve - a light pollution map. With this tool, you can scout out the darkest spots where the night sky will burst into an epic show of greens and reds dancing across the heavens.

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What Is a Light Pollution Map and How Can It Help You See the Northern Lights?

A light pollution map shows you how much artificial light is emitted in areas around the world. For Aurora hunters and photographers, these maps are invaluable tools to find the darkest places with little to no light pollution. The less light pollution, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights clearly and capturing them on camera.

In the northern hemisphere, the Aurora season lasts from September through April. If you’re traveling north of the Arctic Circle during these months and have a night sky free of clouds, using a light pollution map to locate dark skies is key. Some recommended maps are the Blue Marble Navigator, Dark Site Finder and LightPollutionMap (my favourite). These maps use satellite data to show the locations and intensity of artificial light sources like cities, towns, and roads. The darker areas on the maps mean little to no light pollution - perfect conditions for watching the Auroras.

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map light pollution
Once you find a dark area on the map, check if it’s accessible and not on private property. Many national parks, forests and preserves in the far north offer campsites, lodging and open areas ideal for Aurora viewing due to their secluded locations away from light pollution. Plenty of Aurora shows can often be seen right from these locations, giving you a front-row seat to the show.

With the help of a light pollution map and choosing a location far from the glow of artificial lights, you’ll experience the wonder of the Northern Lights in full glory. The dazzling, colorful displays will be etched in your memory forever.
maps of light pollution

How to Use a Map of Light Pollution

A light pollution map shows you where artificial light is brightest and darkest in an area so you can find the perfect spot for viewing the Northern Lights. The darker the location, the better your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis in all its glory.

To use a light pollution map, first find one that covers your location. There are many free, interactive maps available online that provide satellite data on light pollution levels. Next, locate potential viewing spots, like national parks, wilderness areas or rural locations far from cities and towns. The darker green, blue, grey and black areas on the map represent little to no light pollution - these are your prime Aurora viewing destinations. (How to use the light pollution map is explained in our Ultimate Aurora online course.)
maps of light pollution
Once you've identified some promising dark sky locations, check if they're accessible and open at night. Some parks and natural areas may close after dark or have limited operating hours. You'll also want to consider things like available parking, and any permits needed to enter the area after hours.

The final step is to get out there and start looking up! Head to your chosen dark sky spot, allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness, and be patient. The Northern Lights can be visible from a few minutes up to several hours at a time, dancing and shimmering across the sky. With the help of an accurate light pollution map and a little luck, you'll be gazing in wonder at the Aurora Borealis.
maps of light pollution

The Best Places to View the Northern Lights in Finland According to Light Pollution Maps

The light pollution map shows the levels of artificial light in areas across the world. For the best chance at seeing the Northern Lights, you'll want to find darker areas with little light pollution.

Look for Dark Skies

The darker the sky, the more visible the Aurora will be. Areas marked in black or gray on the light pollution map indicate little artificial light and are optimal for viewing. The farther from cities and towns you get, the less light pollution there will be. Some of the best spots in Finland are located in Lapland, away from larger towns.
maps of light pollution
Check the Moon Phase

A darker sky means less moonlight, so aim for nights with a new or crescent moon. The dimmer the moon, the more prominent the Northern Lights will appear. Around the full moon, the extra light can wash out fainter displays of the Aurora.

Get Away from Roads

Light from vehicles, traffic signs and headlights also contributes to light pollution. Look for viewing spots located away from major roads or highways. Secondary roads and dirt tracks leading into secluded, wooded areas are ideal. The farther you can get from the glow of passing cars, the better.

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Consider Weather Conditions

Clear, cloudless skies are the best for observing the Aurora Borealis. Check forecasts for nights that will be mainly clear with little chance of precipitation or fog which can obscure the sky. While a crisp, cold night may be more comfortable for viewing long term, slightly warmer nights just above freezing will produce the best images as the equipment won't be as prone to issues in slightly warmer temperatures.

By finding the darkest skies away from light pollution, moonlight and vehicle traffic, choosing clear nights optimal for viewing, and considering equipment performance in certain weather conditions, you'll give yourself the best shot at witnessing the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights.
northern lights finland

Dark Sky Reserves in Canada Perfect for Aurora Borealis Photography

To find the best spots for viewing the Northern Lights, you need to consult a light pollution map. These maps show the locations of cities, towns, and other sources of light that can interfere with seeing the night sky. The darker the area, the less light pollution, and the better your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis.

In Canada, some of the best places are official Dark Sky Reserves. These are areas that have little to no light pollution and pristine night skies perfect for stargazing and Aurora photography. Two top options are:

Wood Buffalo National Park
Located in northern Alberta and southern Northwest Territories, this massive park is one of the largest Dark Sky Preserves in the world. Its remote wilderness setting far from any major cities offers pitch-black skies and prime Aurora viewing. Plan to camp in the park to get the full experience.
northern lights finland
Torngat Mountains National Park
This park on the Labrador Peninsula in Newfoundland and Labrador is also an International Dark Sky Reserve. Its mountainous terrain, lack of any major light sources, and position along the Labrador Sea coastline create ideal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights. The park is only accessible in the summer by air or sea, with a short season running from July to October.

Other places to consider in Canada based on light pollution maps include rural areas in the Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Quebec. The further north you go, the better, as you'll be closer to the Aurora Oval where the Northern Lights are most active. But anywhere at least 50-100 km outside of major cities and towns should provide sufficiently dark skies, as long as the weather cooperates! Using a light pollution map in tandem with weather forecasts will put you in the best position to spot the Aurora Borealis.
see the northern lights in iceland

Iceland's Hidden Gems for Northern Lights Viewing Away From Light Pollution

To find the best spots for Northern Lights viewing in Iceland away from light pollution, check out the interactive light pollution map. This map shows you the locations of towns and cities across Iceland and the level of artificial light they emit. The darker the area, the less light pollution, and the better your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis.

Some of the hidden gems for escaping light pollution in Iceland include:

  • The Westfjords region: This secluded peninsula in northwestern Iceland has very little infrastructure and sparse population. The tiny fishing villages and deserted landscapes mean pitch-black night skies perfect for Aurora hunting.
  • The Highlands: Iceland’s interior highlands offer isolation from artificial light. Places like the Kjölur route, Sprengisandur route and Askja area have minimal light pollution due to their remote locations and lack of settlements.
see the northern lights in iceland
  • Lake Mývatn area: Although a popular tourist spot, the Mývatn region has many secluded areas away from the main village where you can get an unobstructed view of the night sky. Head to the eastern or southern shores of the lake for the darkest spots.
  • Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Parts of this peninsula in western Iceland, especially in the north, have little light pollution. Find a secluded bay or beach along the coastline, especially away from the main village of Stykkishólmur, for dazzling night sky views.
  • South coast beaches: Not all of Iceland’s south coast is created equal in terms of darkness. Head to the black sand beaches between Vík and Höfn, especially away from the Ring Road near scenic spots like Stokksnes Beach and Vestrahorn Mountain. These secluded beaches offer a front-row seat to potential Northern Lights shows with little interference from light pollution.
By using the interactive light pollution map to pinpoint the darkest areas of Iceland away from infrastructure and settlements, you’ll be setting the stage for an unforgettable Aurora Borealis viewing experience. With a little planning and the right location, you can have the night sky all to yourself in Iceland.
northern lights canada

FAQs: Using Light Pollution Maps to Plan Your Aurora Borealis Adventure

Light pollution maps show you where there are little to no artificial lights obstructing your view of the night sky. For Aurora hunters, these maps are essential to finding ideal conditions for viewing and photographing the Northern Lights.

The darker the location, the better your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis in all its glory. If you’re in a northern country during peak Aurora season from September through April, near the Arctic Circle, and have a clear night sky, you’ll want to find a secluded area far from the glow of city lights. Light pollution maps pinpoint spots with little to no light interference so you know exactly where to go.

Some common questions about using light pollution maps:
northern lights canada
How accurate are the maps?
Maps from sources like DarkSiteFinder and LightPollutionMap rely on data from satellite imagery and ground measurements to determine light levels. They provide a good general sense of the darkest areas but may not reflect temporary light sources. It’s best to consider them a starting point, then do some scouting in person.

Do I need special equipment?
To view the maps, all you need is an internet connection and a device to access them. To see the Northern Lights, pack essentials like a flashlight with a red light, warm clothes, a camera, a tripod, and spare batteries. The darker the location, the more visible the Aurora will be to the naked eye.
northern lights canada
Any tips for using the maps?
Look for the black and grey areas that represent little to no light pollution. Check road accessibility—some remote spots may require hiking in. Consider factors like moon phases, weather conditions, and solar activity to determine the best times and locations. And be sure to plan for safety if traveling to very isolated areas.

With the help of light pollution maps, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect spot to witness one of nature's most spectacular shows. By scoping out locations in advance, you can experience the magical dance of the Aurora Borealis without the interference of artificial light.

Northern Lights Online Tools: Chasing Aurora Like a Pro

The most useful Northern Lights online tools for a successful Aurora hunt. Are you about to hunt the Northern Lights on your own? Then you will find these resources helpful. If you are trying to see Aurora for the first time we recommend signing up for the Northern Lights Online Course where is explained step-by-step all you need to know to see the Northern Lights in an easy way.

  1. Northern Lights essential online tools designed for beginners to help you see Aurora like the handy Aurora Mobile App and Northern Lights Online Course will help you to understand how Aurora works and to monitor real-time activity.

  2. The Northern Lights Forecast for 3 days and long-term Aurora forecast for up to 27 days ahead can be found here: Geophysical Institute Forecast, NOAA Aurora Forecast, Spaceweatherlive Forecast or in the Northern Lights App.

  3. Find the best Aurora spots with the light pollution map and cloud cover prediction.

  4. Northern Lights activity in real-time: Real-time Aurora activity (worldwide magnetometers), Solar Wind activity, Sun's activity, Aurora live Boreal webcams list or Aurora App.

  5. Additional resources to know when it will be dark enough Darkness graph & Map and how much the moon will illuminate the sky Moon Phase + Moonrise & Moonset.

  6. If you decide to go with professional Aurora hunters here you can find the top-rated Aurora Tours.

light pollution map

Conclusion

So now you have the knowledge and tools to become an Aurora hunting pro. Find those dark skies, pack your camera and a thermos of hot cocoa, and get ready for a dazzling display of color and light. The Aurora Borealis is waiting for you in the great north, you just have to know where to look. Next time there's a geomagnetic storm and the Kp index is up, you'll know exactly where to go to escape the light pollution and see the sky come alive. Here's to dancing lights, long exposures, and unforgettable nights under the stars. Happy hunting!

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