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Northern lights season is coming to an end — here's how to see them before it's too late

March 05, 2020
3 min read
Northern lights season is coming to an end — here's how to see them before it's too late
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If you're reading this, it's not too late to catch a glimpse of the northern lights this season.

As winter finally draws to a close, warmer temperatures and longer days are on the horizon. While that's great news for those of us who can't stand the cold, it means your chances of seeing the northern lights are rapidly ending. Typically, the aurora borealis becomes even more rare in late spring, with March and April signaling an unofficial end to northern lights viewing season.

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The good news, though, is that you still might have an opportunity (or two) to make it happen, but you're going to have to move quickly.

"Auroral activity will be moderate" the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks said of March 5, 19, 27 and 28. "Weather permitting, moderate displays will be visible overhead from Utqiaġvik [Alaska] to as far south as Talkeetna [Alaska] and visible low on the horizon as far south as Bethel, Soldotna and southeast Alaska."

During these dates, the Kp index — which measures aurora strength — will be a 4, according to the institute. The index is generally less than 4, so your chances of seeing the lights are slightly greater than usual. The index ranges from 0 to 9, with 0 being the weakest and 9 being a strong geomagnetic storm.

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Of course, you'll have to make a trip up north to see them.

While fears of the fast-moving coronavirus are on the rise, this could be a good excuse to travel to a region that, as of time of publication, has not been affected by the virus. According to Forbes, you'll either need to take a last minute trip to Alaska, or travel to a destination near the Canadian border for a chance to view the ethereal auroras.

Related: How a global outbreak has left the travel industry reeling

Fairbanks, Alaska may be one of your best bets, and is only a three-hour flight from Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA). Seattle is home to Alaska Airlines, and you can book nonstop flights there on virtually all major domestic carriers from major hubs across the country.

If you're looking for an easier itinerary from the East Coast, you'll want to head to Acadia National Park in Maine. Cadillac Mountain has the best view, Forbes said, and you can get there by flying into Portland (PWM). The park is about a three-hour drive from the airport. Or, again, you can venture even farther north to Canada.

Featured image by Photo by Zach Honig/The Points Guy.

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Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
3 / 5
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6X6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program.
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    Limited Time Offer: Earn 125,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 5/3/23.

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Why We Chose It

The Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex is a stacked card with a rewards rate that will help you earn bonus points on everyday and business-related purchases. You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. Finally, the free night award certificate with a redemption level of 35,000 points or less can get you hundreds of dollars in potential value each year.

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  • Limited Time Offer: Earn 125,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 5/3/23.
  • Receive a 7% discount off standard rates for reservations of standard guest rooms at hotels that participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program when you book directly. Terms and Conditions Apply.
  • 6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program.
  • 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
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