Northern Lights vs Southern Lights: What's the Difference?

Overview

The Northern Lights (aurora borealis) have a southern twin — the aurora australis. They're the same phenomenon at opposite ends of the Earth.

Same cause

Both are created when solar particles funnel into the atmosphere near a magnetic pole. They often occur simultaneously, mirroring each other north and south.

Where to see them

The borealis is seen across the Arctic — Finland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Canada, Alaska. The australis is best from Antarctica, southern New Zealand, Tasmania and southern Chile/Argentina — far less accessible.

Why the north wins for travel

Far more populated land sits under the northern auroral oval, making places like Rovaniemi ideal and accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Northern and Southern Lights?

They're the same phenomenon — aurora — at opposite poles. The Northern Lights (aurora borealis) appear in the Arctic; the Southern Lights (aurora australis) appear near Antarctica. Both are caused by solar particles and often mirror each other.

Where can you see the Southern Lights?

Best from Antarctica, southern New Zealand, Tasmania and the far south of Chile and Argentina — far less accessible than the Northern Lights, which are seen across the populated Arctic.

Why are the Northern Lights easier to see than the Southern Lights?

Because much more populated, accessible land sits under the northern auroral oval — like Finnish Lapland — whereas the southern oval mostly covers ocean and Antarctica.

Northern Lights vs Southern Lights

Overview

Same cause

Where to see them

Why the north wins for travel

Frequently Asked Questions

See the Borealis in Rovaniemi