If you've been dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights, 2026 might be your best opportunity in over a decade. Scientists predict Solar Cycle 25 will produce a rare "double peak" of activity, extending exceptional aurora conditions through 2026.
Why 2026 Is Special for Aurora Viewing
The Sun follows an 11-year cycle of activity, swinging from calm periods to intense "solar maximum" phases. During solar maximum, the Sun produces more sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections (CMEs)—the massive eruptions that create spectacular auroras on Earth.
The Double Peak Phenomenon
Solar Cycle 25, our current cycle, is predicted to have a double peak—essentially two bursts of intense solar activity instead of one. This happens when the Sun's northern and southern hemispheres peak at different times.
What this means for aurora hunters:
Extended prime season – More months of heightened solar activity through 2026
Stronger auroras – The most active solar periods produce the brightest, most vibrant displays
More frequent storms – More solar eruptions mean more geomagnetic storms and aurora events
Better baseline odds – Even on "quiet" nights, solar energy levels remain elevated
Lower latitude visibility – Strong storms can push auroras visible to the northern US and Europe
Best Months to See the Northern Lights in 2026
Month
Aurora Potential
Notes
January
Excellent
Long dark nights, cold but prime viewing
February
Excellent
Great sky clarity, improving weather
March
Peak (Equinox)
Equinox boost increases geomagnetic activity
April
Good
Shorter nights but still active
May-July
Poor
Midnight sun in Arctic regions
August
Good
Dark nights return; eclipse month!
September
Peak (Equinox)
Equinox boost, comfortable temperatures
October
Excellent
Longer nights, crisp clear skies
November
Excellent
Peak darkness approaching
December
Excellent
Maximum darkness, holiday travel popular
Pro tip: The equinoxes (March and September) historically produce more geomagnetic storms due to the orientation of Earth's magnetic field relative to the Sun.
Top Destinations for Northern Lights in 2026
1. Norway
Tromsø – The "Gateway to the Arctic" with excellent tour infrastructure
Lofoten Islands – Dramatic fjord scenery and aurora reflections
Alta – Home to the world's first aurora observatory
Svalbard – For the adventurous; polar night from November-January
Best for: First-time aurora hunters, photography, combining with fjord tours
2. Iceland
Thingvellir National Park – Dark skies just 45 minutes from Reykjavik
Curtains and arcs – Classic flowing ribbons across the sky
Corona – Rays appearing to emanate from directly overhead (during strong storms)
Pulsating aurora – Patches that flicker on and off
STEVE – Rare purple/green ribbon phenomenon
Proton arcs – Faint red glows during intense solar events
Colors to Watch For
Green – Most common; oxygen at 60-150 miles altitude
Pink/Red – High-altitude oxygen (above 150 miles); more common during strong storms
Purple/Blue – Nitrogen; often seen at lower edges
Yellow – Mix of green and red
Special 2026 Aurora Opportunities
August 12, 2026: Eclipse + Aurora Combo
The total solar eclipse crosses Iceland on August 12, 2026. While August isn't peak aurora season, the dark nights are returning and solar maximum activity could produce bonus aurora displays during your eclipse trip.
Equinox Aurora Storms
Mark your calendar for the weeks around:
March 20, 2026 – Spring equinox
September 23, 2026 – Autumn equinox
Equinox periods historically produce 2-3x more geomagnetic storms than other times of year.
With solar maximum generating buzz, popular aurora destinations will fill up fast. Book accommodations and tours 6-12 months in advance for peak season (September-March).
Stay Flexible
Plan at least 3-5 nights to maximize your chances
Be prepared to chase clear skies (rent a car if possible)
Sign up for aurora alerts from your accommodation
Have backup indoor activities for cloudy nights
What to Pack
Warm layers – Temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F) or colder
Insulated boots – You'll be standing still for hours
Hand/toe warmers – Essential for photography
Tripod – For aurora photography
Extra camera batteries – Cold drains batteries fast
Red headlamp – Preserves night vision
Thermos with hot drinks – Comfort during long waits
Photography Tips
Use manual mode: ISO 1600-6400, f/2.8 or wider, 5-15 second exposure
Focus manually to infinity
Bring spare batteries (keep them warm in your pocket)
Use a remote shutter or timer to avoid camera shake