Northern Lights Observatory | Kiruna

The Northern Lights Observatory (or Aurora Observatory) in Abisko, Sweden, is one of the best places in the world to observe the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Located within the Abisko National Park, it is renowned for its clear skies and optimal conditions for aurora viewing, thanks to the area's unique geography and low light pollution.

Here’s a detailed overview of the Northern Lights Observatory:

1. Location and Significance

• Abisko, Sweden: The Northern Lights Observatory is situated in the small village of Abisko, which is located in northern Sweden, just 200 kilometers from the Arctic Circle. This remote location, within the Lapland region, is one of the best spots on Earth for aurora viewing due to its unique combination of weather patterns and geographical factors.
• Optimal Viewing Conditions: Abisko is located in a small rain shadow area, which means that it has clearer skies than many other places in the Arctic. This makes it a prime location for aurora viewing, as the region experiences fewer cloudy nights, especially in the winter months.

2. Why Abisko is Ideal for Aurora Viewing

• Clear Skies: The Abisko Valley is surrounded by mountains, which block some of the weather systems that cause cloud cover in other areas of the Arctic. The result is often clear skies, especially during the winter, which significantly increases the chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
• Northern Lights Conditions: The Aurora Borealis occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field, causing light to be emitted in the atmosphere. Abisko’s location, within the Aurora Oval (a zone around the Earth’s magnetic poles), offers optimal conditions for aurora displays. These conditions make the area particularly favored for aurora chasers.
• Seasonality: The best time to view the Northern Lights in Abisko is from September to April, particularly from December to March, when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest.

3. Aurora Sky Station

• Aurora Sky Station: The Aurora Sky Station is the heart of aurora viewing in Abisko. It is located on Mount Nuolja, a nearby peak that rises 900 meters above sea level, providing an elevated position for the best views of the night sky.
• Access to the Station: Visitors can reach the Aurora Sky Station via a chairlift from Abisko Turiststation (the main tourist center in Abisko). The chairlift ride to the top of Mount Nuolja takes about 15 minutes, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape as you ascend.
• Facilities at the Station: At the top of the mountain, the Aurora Sky Station has a café, a museum, and a viewing platform for watching the Northern Lights in comfort. It is specially designed to maximize the viewing experience, with large windows and an open terrace to view the night sky. There are also guided tours that educate visitors about the science behind the Northern Lights and the surrounding natural environment.

4. Viewing the Northern Lights

• Best Viewing Time: The Northern Lights are best viewed in the dark winter months when the nights are long. The peak season is from December to March. The best time to see the auroras is between 9:00 PM and 1:00 AM, though the lights can sometimes be visible as early as 5:00 PM in the winter months.
• Viewing Experience: The Aurora Sky Station is purposefully designed for comfortable aurora viewing, with its location above the valley offering an unobstructed view of the sky. Chairs, blankets, and hot beverages are available to keep visitors warm during the cold nights as they wait for the spectacle to unfold.
• Northern Lights Forecast: The Aurora Sky Station provides a Northern Lights forecast and an Aurora cam for real-time updates on aurora activity. If aurora displays are expected, the station will notify visitors, increasing the chances of seeing the phenomenon.

5. Scientific Research

• Research on the Northern Lights: Abisko is not just a popular tourist destination but also a location for scientific research. The Aurora Observatory (Aurora Sky Station) plays a role in studying the Aurora Borealis and its causes. Research conducted in the area helps to better understand the interaction between the sun's solar wind and Earth’s magnetic field, as well as the effects of the aurora on the environment.
• Specialist Knowledge: Visitors to the station can benefit from the knowledge of expert guides who explain the science behind the auroras and the best times to see them. There are also specialized tours available that explore the science of auroras, the geomagnetic activity, and local culture.

6. Additional Activities

• Winter Activities: Besides aurora viewing, Abisko offers a variety of winter activities for visitors, including snowshoeing, dog sledding, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing. The Kungsleden Trail also passes through Abisko, offering hiking opportunities.
• Northern Lights Photography: For photography enthusiasts, Abisko is an excellent place to capture the Northern Lights. The Aurora Sky Station provides tips and guidance on how to best photograph the auroras, ensuring that visitors can take home memories of the stunning displays.

7. Accommodations

• Abisko Turiststation: The closest accommodation to the Northern Lights Observatory is the Abisko Turiststation, which offers a variety of lodging options, from simple rooms to more luxurious options. It serves as the base for many activities in the area, including access to the Aurora Sky Station.
• Nearby Lodging: There are also other accommodations in Abisko, including guesthouses and cabins, providing options for all types of travelers.

8. Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: The Aurora Sky Station is generally open for aurora viewing from mid-November to mid-April, with extended hours during peak season for aurora viewing. It is recommended to check for opening times before visiting, as they may vary depending on weather and aurora forecasts.
• Accessibility: The chairlift from the Abisko Turiststation to the Aurora Sky Station operates daily during the aurora season, with evening departures scheduled to coincide with peak aurora activity. Those with mobility issues can also access the viewing area via other means, though the chairlift is the most common way.

9. Conclusion

The Northern Lights Observatory and the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko offer one of the best experiences in the world for witnessing the Northern Lights. Thanks to the park's clear skies, low light pollution, and optimal location in the Aurora Oval, visitors are likely to see stunning aurora displays during the winter months. Alongside aurora viewing, the Aurora Sky Station provides a wealth of activities and educational opportunities, making Abisko a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the magic of the Northern Lights in Sweden.