It will be another 6 months before I wander out into the night in chase of the lights. Each night brought its own set of wandering wonders, whether that was me wandering through snow-encrusted black spruce forests or the aurora wandering unpredictably overhead. This season has been described by many Watchers as “the best in years”. Indeed, the frequency and colors of the aurora this season were spectacular. I have enjoyed the Northern Lights from the comfort of a sleeping bag, over the northern edge of the Arctic Circle, and from the comfort of my own home. Braving -40 degree temps or enjoying 30 above zero have all been part of the experience. Over the season my knowledge of how to capture the aurora has grown immensely. The timelapse video below captures the highlights of this season for me. I hope you enjoy it.
Highlight Timelapse 2014 – 2015:
The images below are my Top 20 from the season. I must say, it was difficult not to extend it to a top 50 ;). These assorted pixels are a cross section of aurora intensities and color. Subtle or fluorescent greens, crimson reds, banded pinks, and royal purple danced for those below with necks craned up. Each of these auroras is unique, and I can say with hopeful certainty that I will never see the same pattern of auroras again. That’s why I chase, because you never know what lies in wait as you step out your front door.
Aurora Top 20:
“Blended Aurora” contains an eagle with cloud shadow wings atop the black spruce tree. It literally gave me an adrenaline rush! The subtleties (sp?) of the aurora contain so many opportunities for the mind’s eye to see beyond the obvious bands of light and color.
Ooooh! I see it, the likeness is uncanny!
Oh my, these are all WAY over the top! Incredible collection to marvel over. Side note … I’ll be in Fairbanks at the very end of September and I’m hoping that I can get some aurora images of my own once again. Put a word in for me. 🙂
Sounds good – target late September if you can! You should let me know when you hit the region, I’m always looking for someone “gung-ho” to head out with. Thanks for the positive vibes!
Your photos are spectacular and your prose eloquent. Thank you for sharing your Alaskan experiences with us.
I was told by a native Canadian that if you stood under an aurora and whistled it would dip in your direction. Was he pulling my leg?
Haha! Next time the aurora is booming overhead I’ll be sure to give it a try. Would be nice to get it a little closer for pictures 😉
They are all so dynamic & uniquely striking. I appreciate the hues & crispness of “Sun Kissed Aurora”. C’est incroyable!
Thanks Peggy! Yes, quite dynamic – a full palette of colors!
I love your top 20… it could be featured in the National Geographic 🙂
Thanks – Nat Geo, I’d hang my hat on that! Would be sweet!
Ian, they are all very lovely but how do I get a picture of the Village Aurora? It looks like a painting and is so very beautiful. I realize all the pictures are yours and cannot be copied but I thought I would ask.