Cottagers across the country got quite the light show over the last few days with the northern lights appearing further south than usual due to increased solar activity. Cottagers should keep an eye out as solar activity peaks over the next year or so. With the right conditions near some lakes, people watched the light show, snapping some incredible pictures to capture the special moment.
While many onlookers were able to capture stunning photos with just a phone, using a camera that can take long exposure photos and a tripod to prevent movement, works best. The long exposure will allow more light and movement to enter the camera, creating bright and dynamic photos. You can learn more about photographing the phenomenon here.
Where is the best place to see the northern lights?
Currently, forecasts show activity has died down in southern Ontario but it continues to remain active further north with the strongest activity being in the Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Nunavut. It is best to keep an eye on the aurora forecast.
The best places to view this activity are the dark sky preserves marked by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada as spaces protected from light pollution, they provide optimal astronomical viewing on a clear night.
What causes the northern lights?
As the sun produces solar wind (charged particles) in space, the Earth’s magnetic field reflects the solar wind around the planet. When the solar wind collides with the Earth’s atmospheric gasses, a spectacular light show is produced.
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