Last night was our final one at Blachford Lake, and it didn't disappoint. After a slow beginning at 7:30 pm, the lights really got going 3 hours later with a dramatic burst of activity that had everyone outside and gaping skyward. I tried getting some broader landscapes like this one to balance the many detail shots I've gotten this week. This one worked well.
We head home tonight, so this is my last aurora posting for this trip. But in the weeks ahead I will be checking the many useful aurora websites like Spaceweather.com which posts solar activity - the best measure of aurora potential. Keep an eye out for an M-class flare directed towards Earth : a burst of solar energy which almost always results in active auroras. If they are strong enough, the lights may come south of the Canadian border in places.
Anyhow, I hope you've enjoyed this day-by-day account of this aurora trip. We have been extraordinarily lucky with 5 straight nights of clear weather and active auroras. It doesn't always work out this way...
By the way, I am considering leading a couple of aurora photography trips next season - probably centered here in Yellowknife. If you think you might be interested, write to me at kevinschafer.com and I'll provide more details.
Nikon D3 with 28mm f1.4 lens, 8 sec. at ISO 1000
I’ve enjoyed it – but after following the link you posted yesterday to the lodge, I’m also really jealous. 🙂
Hey Derek, Thanks for commenting. Yeah, we stayed here 8 years ago for a memorable New Year’s Eve, and it is an exceptional location and the best aurora base I know of. What it lacks in dramatic scenery (e.g. a view of Denali) it makes up for in accessibility – you step outside of a terrific lodge into utter wilderness – no light pollution, no highways, nothing between you and the sky. I will be back.
Yes thank you for posting your daily photos and descriptions. Living in SW PA we don’t often see much of the Northern Lights. Anytime there’s the least possibility I’m out looking. I’ve checked in daily to see your postings. The way the light paints the sky is mesmerizing. I could imagine sleeping during the daylight hours to be able to stay awake to watch the changing light show.
Hi Rebecca, Thanks for commenting. Yes, it would take a pretty strong solar event to get aurora down your way – but it does happen. (Usually it’s the kind of event when the news reports potential interference with radio transmissions etc). And yes, sleep is at a premium when you do this for more than a night or two – after 5 straight nights, I’m about ready to collapse for the weekend at home..
Looks like heaven to me! Bravo great image.
Hi Susan, It is heaven, if you like paradise at 40 below! Thanks….