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Aurora Australis Southern Lights
2hrs
The Aurora Australis Southern Lights, is a mesmerizing natural flux light display that graces the southern hemisphere with its ethereal beauty. This celestial phenomenon, mirroring the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), occurs in the high-latitude regions surrounding the Antarctic Circle. This captivating solar cycle spectacle is primarily visible in countries like Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica, and parts of South America.
What are the Southern Lights?
The Aurora Australis is a celestial dance of light caused by the interaction of charged particles from the solar wind with interplanetary magnetic fields and atmosphere. These charged particles, mainly electrons and protons, collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, producing vibrant hues of green, pink, purple, and red that paint the night sky.
When and Where to Witness the Aurora Australis Southern Lights?
The sunspot cycle, occurring roughly every 11 years, influences solar activity and creates sunspots. These sunspots lead to increased solar wind, resulting in the captivating aurora, such as the Aurora Australis Southern Lights
The last solar cycle peak occurred in 2013, and the next peak is expected between 2023-2025. This is exciting for aurora enthusiasts, as the intensity of the southern lights aligns with the 11-year solar cycle.
NASA predicts peak solar activity in 2023-2025, making it an ideal time to plan a trip to witness the aurora australis.
The sunspot cycle is linked to magnetic pole reversals every 11 years, completing a 22-year solar cycle. Despite pole changes, the sun's behavior remains consistent within each 11-year cycle, adding to the allure of this captivating solar dance.
To witness this extraordinary natural phenomenon, one must venture to regions with high latitudes, ideally close to the magnetic pole. The best times to catch a glimpse of the Southern Lights are during the winter months when the nights are longest. We start and finish our seasonal tours according to the Russel McPherron effect; within the Equniox and Solstices or what Scientists call the "equinoctial effect". Remote locations, away from light pollution, enhance the visibility of the auroras, providing an unobstructed view of the celestial spectacle. PLEASE NOTE: there is no guarantee we will see the Aurora Australis Southern Lights.
There are some websites that provide alerts, forecasting, predictions, probabilities, indices and current "nowcasting":
Benefits of Experiencing the Aurora Australis Southern Lights:
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Spectacular Visual Delight: The Southern Lights offer a breathtaking visual feast, with vibrant colors swirling and dancing across the night sky, creating an awe-inspiring display of natural beauty.
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Connection with Nature: Witnessing the Aurora Australis provides a profound connection with nature, as you become a spectator to the cosmic interplay between solar winds and the Earth's magnetic field.
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Unique Photographic Opportunities: Capture stunning photographs of the auroras to preserve the memory of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. The vivid colors and dynamic patterns make for compelling and unique photographic subjects.
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Cultural and Social Experiences: Many locations where the Southern Lights are visible offer rich cultural experiences. Engage with local communities, explore indigenous traditions, and immerse yourself in the unique lifestyle of these regions.
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Memorable Adventure: Planning a trip to witness the Southern Lights involves embarking on an adventurous journey to remote and pristine landscapes. Whether it's camping in the wilderness or sailing across icy waters, the entire experience becomes a memorable adventure.
Why Should You Care About the Aurora Australis?
The Aurora Australis isn't just a visual spectacle; it's an opportunity to reconnect with the natural world, creating lasting memories and fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of our planet. In a world often dominated by technology and urban living, this celestial display serves as a reminder of the Earth's majesty and the importance of preserving its beauty for future generations.
Aurora Australis Southern Lights experiences:
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Best places to see the Southern Lights Explore ideal locations like Tasmania, New Zealand's South Island, and Antarctica for the best Southern Lights viewing experiences.
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Southern Lights tours and packages Discover guided tours and packages that offer a curated experience, providing expert insights and ensuring the best chances of witnessing the auroras.
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Photography tips for capturing the Aurora Australis Learn techniques and tips for capturing stunning photographs of the Southern Lights, including camera settings and composition ideas.
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Cultural experiences in Southern Lights destinations Delve into the diverse cultures and traditions of regions where the Southern Lights are visible, enhancing your overall travel experience.
The best part about Aurora hunting
Embarking on a journey to witness the Aurora Australis Southern Lights is not just a trip; it's a transformative experience that combines the thrill of adventure with the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. It's an opportunity to step away from the ordinary, immerse yourself in the wonders of the world, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The Southern Lights offer a unique blend of visual splendor, cultural richness, and a profound connection with the Earth's celestial dance – an experience that transcends the ordinary and enriches the soul.
What are you waiting for?
The Southern Lights beckon as a natural masterpiece, inviting you to explore the untouched corners of our planet, reconnect with nature, and indulge in an immersive adventure that transcends the ordinary. Witnessing the Aurora Australis Southern Lights is not just a journey; it's a celebration of the Earth's beauty, a testament to the wonders of the cosmos, and a profound reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage.
2 hrs
Itineraries
Choose your location in Christchurch, Dunedin or Queenstown
Bring your warm clothes, camera, family and friends
Enjoy and capture the Aurora Australis Southern Lights
To witness the Southern Lights, plan a trip to high-latitude regions such as Antarctica, Australia and New Zealand during the winter months. Our locations are away from light pollution for optimal visibility.
The Aurora Australis is caused by the interaction of charged particles from the solar wind with the Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere, resulting in the emission of light.
The best time to see the Southern Lights is during the winter months when the nights are longest, typically between May and September.
The Southern Lights occur when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, releasing energy in the form of colorful light.
Fair, you paid for it! But you still received our services and a 'nature' experience, so you may return at half-price.
Wellington: Ōwhiro Bay carpark / Te Kopahou Visitor Centre.
Christchurch: Dyers Pass / Sign of the Kiwi Cafe.
Dunedin: Tunnel Beach Walk / Tunnel Beach Car Parking
Plane, train, Uber/Taxi or self-drive.
https://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/
Please arrange your own nearby accommodation
This Aurora Australis Southern Lights tour is costed per group from 1-10 people. It is a private group tour.
Clothing
- Merino/Thermal Shirt
- Fleece/insulation layer
- Down Jacket
- Neck warmer / scarf
- Beanie
Equipment
- Personal medication
- Water bottle
Guided tour includes
Photography
Hot drinks
Dessert / pastries
Tour Excludes
Transport / Flights / Taxi - all can be arranged