We’re all familiar with the magical sight of the Northern Lights dancing above snowy landscapes in Norway, Iceland, or Canada. But NASA has just taken aurora watching to an entirely new level—outer space.
NASA astronaut Colonel Anne McClain, while aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, shared a jaw-dropping video of the aurora borealis as seen from orbit. Instead of flickering across the night sky, the aurora appeared as a glowing green ribbon draped across Earth’s curved horizon. It was a quiet, almost ethereal display—one that’s captivated viewers around the globe.
McClain posted the video on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“Auroras from space always draw crewmembers to the Cupola. I love how this one illuminated our Dragon… I’ve added travelling to see auroras from Earth to my bucket list!”
The post quickly went viral, gaining tens of thousands of likes and inspiring wanderlust for both space exploration and aurora chasing here on Earth.
And while most of us won’t be boarding a spacecraft any time soon, there are still plenty of places on our planet where you can witness the beauty of the Northern Lights for yourself.
🌌 Best Places on Earth to See the Northern Lights:
1. Tromsø, Norway
Nicknamed the “Aurora Capital of the World,” Tromsø lies deep within the Arctic Circle. From September to March, this scenic town offers some of the most consistent and breathtaking views of the aurora.
2. Iceland
Iceland’s dramatic landscape—featuring waterfalls, lava fields, and glaciers—makes aurora viewing even more magical. Try spots like Thingvellir National Park or Vik for dark skies, and maybe catch the lights from a geothermal hot spring.
3. Finnish Lapland
Dream of watching the aurora from a glass igloo? In Lapland, that fantasy becomes reality. Surrounded by snow, reindeer, and the silence of the Arctic wilderness, it’s a truly enchanting experience.
4. Abisko, Sweden
Tucked away in Swedish Lapland, Abisko is known for its reliably clear skies thanks to a unique microclimate. It’s a hidden gem for aurora hunters who want stunning, uninterrupted views.
5. Yukon & Northwest Territories, Canada
These remote Canadian regions offer some of the best aurora sightings thanks to minimal light pollution and long viewing seasons. Whitehorse and Yellowknife are among the top destinations, with guided tours and stunning landscapes.
6. Fairbanks, Alaska
For those in the U.S., Fairbanks is the ultimate Northern Lights destination. Long, dark winters and frequent auroral activity make it a hotspot for both amateur stargazers and professional photographers.
🌠 Final Thought:
Colonel McClain’s awe-inspiring aurora footage reminds us just how incredible our planet—and our universe—can be. Whether you’re stargazing from snowy forests or dreaming beyond the atmosphere, there’s a world of wonder waiting to be discovered.
